filter theory

• Kerckhoff and Davis ( 1962 ) studied student couples in short term relationships ( < 18 months ) and suggested that we choose partners using a series of filters, narrowing down a " field of availables "
• Filter theory filters:

  Sociodemographic characteristics

  Similarity of attitudes

  Complementarity
• FT Sociodemographic features:

  Early stages of the relationship

  Similarities in age, location, religion etc make potential partners more accessible to you and give something in common

  You are more likely to meet these people

  Anyone too different will be ignored during this stage
• FT Similarity of attitudes:

  As the relationship is developing

  Agreeing on basic values and needs encourages acceptance and deeper communication ( self disclosure )

  If there is nothing in common, it is likely a couple will break up
• FT Complementarity:

  Important for long term couples

  Having traits that your partner lacks and vice versa
• FT AO3. There is research support for complementarity.

  Winch ( 1958 ) conducted a study on complementarity. It was found that similarities in personality, interests and attitudes between partners are more common in the early stages of a relationship. For longer lasting couples, complementarity was more important.

  This supports the filter theory and proves that key factors in a relationship change over time.
• FT AO3. Research support for filter theory usually only shows correlation, not causation.

  Anderson et al found in a longitudinal study that emotional responses of long term partners become more alike over time, rather than being similar from the start.

  Davis and Rusbult found that long term couples become aligned over time, suggesting that similarities between attitudes is an effect of attraction, not a cause.

  This casts doubt on research into the filter theory, as it may not be proving anything.
• FT AO3. The filter theory has real world application.

  Duck ( 1973 ) suggested that the purpose of the filtering process is that it allows people to make predictions about their future interactions with someone, and avoid investing in someone that won't work out.

  This is beneficial because it can be applied to real life relationships.
• FT AO3. The filter theory may lack temporal validity.

  Social demographic factors may not be as important as they used to be when developing a relationship. Development of technology like dating websites and apps greatly affect modern relationships. In comparison with a few decades ago, people are more likely to develop relationships with people outside of their geographical proximity or their culture.

  This means that the filter theory may not be completely applicable anymore.
• FT AO3. Research supporting the filter theory may be culturally biased.

  There are differences in marriage between cultures. Individualist cultures value free choice, and partners are chosen based on individualist preferences, making the filter theory more applicable. However, in collectivist cultures, arranged marriage is common, and people are not free to apply filters.

  This shows that the filter theory suffers from culture bias, by assuming the rules of partner choice apply to relationships everywhere.