Factors affecting Attraction- Filter Theory

What is filter theory?

• Kirchhoff and Davies (1962)- suggested that there are certain limiting factors that affect the choice of partners

• We only become attracted to those who pass through a series of filters (field of availables and desirables)

Similarity Filter 1- Social demography

• We are more likely to come into contact with some people more than others just due to how we spend our time

• Factors include physical proximity, social class, ethnic group, age and education level

• This will be linked to characteristics like social class, level of education and economic status

• Leads to homogamy- forming relationships with those who are socially and culturally similar to ourselves

Similarity filter 2- Attitudes

• Due to social demography it is likely that we will come into contact with people with similar core values

• These people are seen as more attractive/ compatible

• This helps with self disclosure at the start of relationships

• If there is not enough in common, then the relationship may fizzle out fairly quickly

Similarity filter 3- Complementarity

• We are attracted to those people who provide for our emotional needs

• In this way partners can have differences that are mutually beneficial and adds depth to the relationship

• E.g: one partner may like organising social activities and the other enjoys having them arranged for them

• If both wanted to organise these may lead to a conflict

• Therefore complementarity is seen as important for the success of long term relationships

Research on filter theory

• Kirchhof & Davies (1963)- investigation of filters

• Conducted a 7 month questionnaire on views and based longitudinal study using student couples who had either been together for more or less than 18 months

• Found a similarity of attitudes was the most important factor for short term relationships (less than 18 months) and complementarity was the most important factor in long term relationships

• However sample can’t be generalisable- young educated American sample

Strengths

• Increases the explanatory power of the theory- highlights different factors and why relationships become more selective over time

• Real life relevance- explains dating patterns such as choosing people form similar social backgrounds

Limitations

• Lack of temporal validity- based on 1960s heterosexual student couples- also doesn’t account for modern dating which involves online dating and diverse relationships

• Reductionist- underplays the role of looks which is seen to be crucial in early attraction

• Deterministic- suggests relationships follow fixed stages- ignoring free will and individual choice, even if said choices seem irrational