Social Psychology 2 - Attraction, Friendship, and Love

Flashcards on interpersonal attraction, friendship, and love, covering the core ideas that underpin social relationships and the science behind building better relationships.

Interpersonal Attraction

The essence of why and how we interact with people, fundamental to all types of relationships.

Need to Belong

An ingrained need to connect with others, fundamental to the field, as important as the need for food, shelter, and safety.

Need for Intimacy

The need to have intimate relationships with others, characterized by psychological closeness, not just physical presence.

Disclosure

Sharing bits about yourself (personal histories, secrets, concerns) which drives intimacy with others and is important for developing close relationships.

Similarity

The principle that people are attracted to those who are similar to them on various dimensions (attitudes, beliefs, interests, age, religion, etc.).

Proximity

The principle that physical closeness leads to liking. We tend to like people we see often due to friendships of convenience.

Mere Exposure Effect

The phenomenon that repeated exposure to something (or someone) new increases liking, as long as there are no negative outcomes.

Positive Affect

Positive feelings that can directly or indirectly (associated) influence attraction. Meeting someone when feeling positive leads to liking them.

Active Constructive Responding

Responding positively and enthusiastically when someone shares a positive experience or attempts to capitalize on a positive event.

Capitalization Attempt

Sharing a positive experience with someone else to seek their positivity and support.

Positive Relationship Deposits

Positive interactions that add to a relationship's ‘bank account,’ leading to happier, longer-lasting relationships that fare better in conflict.

Gratitude

Being grateful and expressing thanks to friends and romantic partners, key to maintaining positive relationships.

Forgiveness

The capacity to forgive small and big instances in a relationship, which contributes to positive deposits.

Criticism

Turning a complaint about a behavior into a criticism of the person, a significant negative factor during conflict.

Contempt

Being truly mean during a conflict, undermining, and disrespectful.

Defensiveness

Responding to a valid concern with defensiveness, pointing out flaws, and turning it back on the other person.

Stonewalling

Disengaging altogether during conflict by withdrawal or giving the silent treatment.