filter theory

Filter Theory (Kerckhoff and Davis, 1962)

An explanation of relationship formation stating that we are only attracted to those who pass through three specific levels of filters.

Filter 1: Social Demography

The first level of filter where we are more likely to come into contact with certain people due to how we spend our time (e.g., who we live near, education, work, social class, and economic status).

Filter 2: Similarity in Attitudes

The second level of filter where sharing similar attitudes and values makes individuals more compatible.

Filter 3: Complementarity

The third level of filter where individuals are attractive if they provide for our emotional needs; differences can be mutually beneficial and are important for long-term success.

Kerckhoff and Davis Study (AO3)

Conducted a 7-month questionnaire on student couples together for less than 18 months; found similar attitudes matter for short-term relationships, while complementarity matters for long-term ones.

Methodological Limitation of Filter Theory

The original study suffered from a small sample size and culture bias.

Taylor (2010) Evidence

Found that in 1998 America, 85% of people married from within their own ethnicity (supporting social demography).

Temporal Validity Issue

Filter theory may lack temporal validity because modern relationship formation has a heavier focus on physical attraction due to the rise of online dating.

Impact of Globalisation

Globalisation may cause more relationships to form between different ethnicities, shifting traditional demographic boundaries.