Attraction: Filter Theory

ATTRACTION: FILTER THEORY

Filter Theory

- We choose partners by using a series of filters that narrow down the 'field of availables'.

- Different filters are prominent at different stages.

- Social demographic variables are important in initial stages; whereas similarity in attitudes is important for the next stage.

- Complementarity of needs (people are attracted to others whose needs are 'harmonious' with their own)

Key Study: Kerckhoff & Davis (1962)

Procedure - Couples completed questionnaries of shared attitudes, values and degree of need complementarity.

Findings - Dating for less than 18 months shows similarity is the most significant predictor of closeness. However, more than 18 months shows only complementarity of needs is predictive of closeness.

Evaluation

- Lack of research support for filter theory by Levinger et al, which failed to replicate predictions.

- Filtering process allows people to avoid investing in a relationship that 'won't work', according to Duck.

- Perceived similarity predicts attraction more than actual similarity, according to Hoyle.

- Complementarity of needs is not as important as similarity of attitudes, according to Dijkstra and Barelds.

- Many people are not aware of their partner's values, needs, etc, according to Thornton and Young-DeMarco.