Factors Affecting Attraction - Filter Theory

Kirchhoff and Davies (1962)

Proposed filter theory to explain how we choose romantic partners. The idea is that we don’t consider every possible person - we’re only likely to become romantically involved with people who pass through a series of filters from the field of availables (everyone we could theoretically date) to the field of desirables (those we are likely to pursue a relationship with)

Filter 1 - Social demography (similarity filter)

• This filter is based on proximity and social background

• We are more likely to interact with people who live near us, attend the same schools or workplaces and socialise in the same environments

• These people often share demographic factors such as social class, level of education, cultural background and economic status

• This makes forming a relationship easier and more likely, as similarity leads to fewer barriers and more shared experiences

Filter 2 - Similarity in attitudes (psychological filter)

• After social demography, we tend to form bonds with those who have similar core beliefs and values

• This increases attraction and compatibility, particularly in early stage relationships, where agreement on key issues encourages self disclosure and trust

• Shared attitudes promote greater communication, which helps the relationship develop

Filter 3 - Complementarity (emotional needs filter)

• In longer term relationships, we are attracted to people who complement us by fulfilling emotional needs we may not meet ourselves

• Rather than being similar, partners may have opposing but compatible traits. Eg one partner enjoys organising social events, while the other prefers to attend without planning

• This balance of roles helps reduce conflict and increases relationship satisfaction, making it important for long term success

AO3 - Winch (1958)

Found evidence that similarities of personality, interests and attitudes between partners are typical of the earliest stages of a relationship. This is consistent with the second part of filter theory that predicts that having things in common with your partner is important in relationships

AO3 - Lack of historical validity

Romantic relationships are far different from now in comparison to the 1960s. Online dating means that proximity is less of an issue as the internet allows us to be connected to people across the world. Also, apps like Tinder also affect the initial stage of relationships as the physical appearance of someone is going to be the first filter. This means filter theory is out of date as the variables concerning how we filter and select people are now different

AO3 - Davis and Rusbult (2001)

Discovered that romantic partners over time bring their attitudes into line with each others which challenges filter theories view that long term relationships are about complimenting each others differences rather than becoming more alike which is what the above study suggests