Factors Affecting Attraction in Romantic Relationships - Physical Attractiveness (inc matching hypothesis). Flashcards Preview

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Flashcards in Factors Affecting Attraction in Romantic Relationships - Physical Attractiveness (inc matching hypothesis). Deck (9)
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1
Q

What does research show about women valuing physical attractiveness in relationships?

A

That they tend to value it only in short term relationships, but that is was less important in long term relationships.

2
Q

What does research show about men valuing physical attractiveness in relationships?

A

That they rely on it in long-term relationships.

3
Q

What does the Matching Hypothesis state?

A

That when people are forming relationships, they look for partners whose social desirability approximately matches their own.

4
Q

What must individuals first do in order for the Matching Hypothesis to apply?

A

Asses their own ‘value’.

5
Q

Once individuals have assessed their own ‘value’, what do they do?

A

Select the best potential partner who would most likely be attracted to them.

6
Q

Why do people not aim for the most socially desirable partner?

A

Because by choosing someone of a similar level to themselves, they maximise the chance of a successful outcome.

7
Q

What has changed over time about the Matching Hypothesis?

A

Initially, it proposed that people would pair up with someone as ‘socially desirable’ as themselves biased on a range of traits.
But now, it is more associated with specifically physical attractiveness.

8
Q

What did Walster et al refer to these mating choices as?

A

‘Realistic choices’.

9
Q

What was the study carried out that actually implies attractiveness is more important than matching?

A

Computer Dance Study.