matching hypothesis

physical attractiveness

attracted to people who are better looking.

evolutionary theory suggests - visible indications of health e.g. face symmetry, youth.

Halo effect

people with the physical characteristic of physical attractiveness are assumed to be successful.

intelligent, sociable etc.

self fulfilling prophecy - people acting positively towards them and creating these traits to be true.

matching hypothesis

• we realistically appraise out attraction to others

• look for romantic partner who are similar level of attraction

• avoid pain of rejection - too attractive

• we retain our partners by choosing someone who wont leave.

AO3 - supporting

Silverman

conducted judges to judge photos of couples and their level of attraction.

found that most couples were on the same level of attractiveness.

AO3 - limitation of Silverman

primarily focused on heterosexual relationships

not representative of all relationships - lowers generalisability.

AO3 - limitation

influence of the third party on the influence of attraction.

setting people up. through friends or family.

they will take into account all characteristics not just attractiveness.

AO3 - practical application/strength

theory becoming more valid.

through the use of online dating - people are depending on physical attraction alone.

visual cues.