Love & Attraction + interpersonal relationships

the halo effect

Occurs when we assume that a person who has one positive characteristic (physical attractiveness) also possesses other desirable traits, such as kindness, intelligence, or confidence. This bias can make us more attracted to someone based on superficial qualities, reinforcing the idea that what is beautiful is good.

similarity attraction hypothesis

Argues that people are more attracted to those who share their attitudes, values, and beliefs because similarity creates a sense of familiarity, validation, and security in relationships. Cognitive consistency theory suggests that individuals prefer relationships and interactions that align with their pre-existing beliefs and perceptions.

social penetration theory

argues that close relationships are formed by a process of gradual self-disclosure (sharing personal things about yourself with someone you trust). Researchers propose that self-disclosure leads to self-validation. The theory includes 4 levels of disclosure; the orientation stage (sharing simple information without revealing vulnerability), the exploratory stage (start to reveal more about personal feelings and opinions on “safe” topics), the affective stage (beginning to share information of a private/personal nature) and finally, the stable stage (feeling like you can be open and honest about anything with a partner)

mere exposure theory

Argues that people tend to develop a preference for things simply because they are familiar with them. The more frequently we are exposed to something, the more we like it. In the context of love and attraction, the theory suggests that repeated exposure to a stimulus shapes our perceptions and preferences, increasing attraction in a relationship.