Relationships - Filter Theory Flashcards
What is the filter theory of attraction?
Filter theory, proposed by Kerckhoff and Davis (1962), explains how different factors progressively limit the range of available partners to a smaller pool of possibilities. It includes three levels: social demography, similarity in attitudes, and complementarity.
What is the first level of the filter theory?
Social demography refers to factors like geographical location, social class, and education level that limit potential partners. Relationships are more likely to form between individuals with similar social demographics because these factors increase accessibility and opportunities for interaction.
What is the second level of the filter theory?
Similarity in attitudes is crucial in the early stages of a relationship. Kerckhoff and Davis (1962) found this to be important for couples who had been together for less than 18 months. Sharing similar beliefs and attitudes fosters deeper communication and self-disclosure.
What is the third level of the filter theory?
Complementarity becomes more significant in long-term relationships. This refers to the way partners meet each other’s needs and balance out traits. For example, one partner might be nurturing while the other prefers being cared for. Complementarity helps create a sense of mutual fulfillment.
What is one evaluation point for filter theory?
Support from research evidence: Kerckhoff and Davis (1962) found that similarity in attitudes was important for short-term couples (less than 18 months), while complementarity was key for long-term couples. This aligns with the idea that different factors are prioritized at different stages of a relationship.
What is another evaluation point for filter theory?
Failure to replicate: Levinger (1974) found no evidence for the predicted relationship between the length of a relationship and the importance of similarity or complementarity. This challenges the reliability of the filter theory.
What does research suggest about direction of cause and effect?
Filter theory assumes people are initially attracted because of similarity, but research by Anderson et al. (2003) suggests cohabiting partners become more similar over time—a phenomenon called emotional convergence. This implies that similarity is an outcome of relationships, not a cause.
What is another evaluation point about temporal validity?
Lack of temporal validity: Social demography has become less significant due to advancements in technology and online dating, which allow people to connect across different social backgrounds. This challenges the relevance of the filter theory in modern relationships.
