Key Concepts in Physical Attractiveness and Attraction Effects

Physical Attractiveness Effect

Physical attractiveness influences how positively we evaluate others

What Is Beautiful Is Good Effect

Attractive people are assumed to have more positive traits than unattractive people

Evaluation Bias in Attractiveness

People judge attractive individuals as more intelligent, kind, and competent

Factors in Attractiveness

Characteristics that influence attraction such as facial symmetry and body shape

Facial Symmetry

More symmetrical faces are generally perceived as more attractive

Body Shape

Certain body proportions are culturally associated with attractiveness

Proximity

We tend to be more attracted to people we see or interact with frequently

Mere Exposure Effect

Increased exposure to a person increases liking and attraction

Similarity

We are more attracted to people who are similar to us in attitudes, values, and interests

Similarity-Attraction Effect

Shared characteristics increase liking and relationship satisfaction

Halo Effect

A positive trait (physical attractiveness) leads to assumptions of other positive traits

Halo Effect in Attractiveness

Attractive people are perceived as smarter, kinder, and more capable

Contrast Effect

Attractiveness judgments are influenced by comparison to others nearby

Contrast Effect in Attractiveness

A person seems more or less attractive depending on who they are compared to

Comparison Factors in Attraction

Evaluations of attractiveness depend on context and comparison