Module 5a Transcript - Physical Attractiveness

A set of vocabulary terms based on lecture notes regarding the psychology of physical attractiveness, attraction factors, and the dynamics of mate selection.

Attraction

A positive evaluation of another person characterized by a desire to be around them and get to know them better.

Romantic attraction

The specific desire for a person as a potential intimate partner.

Mate selection

The process of actually forming a formal relationship with someone.

Symmetry

A facial quality where both sides of the face match, which is perceived as more attractive because it suggests a lack of genetic mutations.

Average features

Facial features that lack distinct extremes, such as a nose that is neither very large nor very small; composites of many faces are often rated as more attractive than individual faces.

Physical attractiveness stereotype

A cognitive bias where people ascribe positive qualities such as kindness, sensitivity, interest, and talent to physically attractive individuals.

Self-fulfilling prophecy

A phenomenon where treating someone according to expectations causes them to live up to those expectations, such as attractive people becoming more socially skilled because they are treated more warmly.

Matching phenomenon

The tendency for people to approach and form long-term relationships with others who have a similar level of physical attractiveness to themselves.

Out of our league

A social perception where someone is recognized as being significantly more attractive than oneself, often leading to a lack of approach due to fear of rejection.

Mate poaching

The intentional attempt by others to lure away an attractive person who is already in a committed, often mismatched, relationship.

Entitlement

A sense of power felt by the more attractive partner in a mismatched relationship, based on the realization they have more alternative relationship options.