Filter theory

• Kerckhoff and Davis’s Filter Theory 1962 suggests we choose romantic partners by using a series of filters that narrow down the field of available.
• In early stages of relationships we look for, demographic similarities such as age, social background, geographical location, class and religion. This determines likelihood of individuals meeting, reduce the range of people that are realistically available and we are more at ease with people similar to us and might find them attractive, as we have more in common.
• When the relationship develops we look for a similarity of attitudes. This is an agreement on attitudes and basic values, it is of central importance at the start of the relationship and the best predictor of stable relationships. This focuses on individuals meeting and socialising.
• Finally we look for whether their personality traits compliment the individual’s own traits. People provide each other with mutual satisfaction of the opposed needs, makes a relationship deeper, less superficial and establishes commitment towards a long-term relationship. Attracted to others whose needs are harmonious with their own rather than conflicting.
• Research support. Kerckhoff & Davis 1962 conducted a longitudinal study of 94 dating couples who completed two questionnaires to assess similarity of attitudes and values and complementarity of needs. 7 months later, a further questionnaire was taken. Found closeness was associated with similarity of values for couples who had been together less than 18 months and for longer relationships, complementarity of needs predicted closeness. This is positive as it demonstrated similarity is important in the early stages of a relationship, but complementarity is important later on.
• However, research lacks reliability for filter theory. Levinger et al 1970 found studies had failed to replicate the findings of Kerckhoff and Davis. This means filter theory lacks validity.
• Complementarity may not be central to all long-term relationships. Filter theory assumes the most satisfying relationships are complementary. Markey and Markey 2013 used a sample of lesbian couples who had been romantically involved for a mean time of more than 4 ½ years and found couples of equal dominance were most satisfied. This suggests that complementarity may not always be associated with long-term satisfaction.