Unit 5.5: Attraction, break up

Biological Symmetry

Symmetrical faces demonstrate strong genetics, strong immune systems and the ability to fight diseases

Differences in Odor

Scent is an indicator of the immune system, each person has a natural scent based on their immune system. People are subconsciously attracted to the scent of others with different scents because genetic diversity in the immune system is beneficial. Different immune systems make it more likely that the partner will fight diseases while the other is incapacitated

Also, their offspring would be able to fight more diseases than the two of them put together --theoretically

Similar Physical Characteristics

We are more likely to see ourselves in the people we date

Desired Qualities in partner

Biological Symmetry

Differences in odor

Similar Physical Characteristics

Dopamine

Rises when one is in love and even higher when they break up with someone

Serotonin

When one is in love, the levels drop resulting in obsessive behavior

Norepinephrine

When one is first in love, norepinephrine levels spike resulting in sped up autonomic functions

Oxytocin

Rises when one engages in romantic behaviors with their partner

Cortisol

Drops when one engages in romantic behavior

Chemical Changes In Observer

Dopamine

Serotonin

Norepinephrine

Oxytocin

Cortisol

The Halo Effect

A cognitive bias in which one quality about an individual (i.e. attractiveness, agreeableness, common interests) completely overshadows everything else about that individual in the perception of the observer

Proximity

The two parties must be close to each other. Long distance relationships undermine it

Mere Exposure

The more a person is around the person to whom they’re attracted, the more they like that person

Frustration Attraction

As a combination of high dopamine and low serotonin levels, the person can’t stop thinking about their lost love, laments not being with them, and wants to get back with them