Kerckhoff&Davis (1962) suggested filter theory after conducting research with real-life couples, asking them what it was that attracted them to each other in the first place and why the relationship was successful
Proximity is key when it comes to the first stage of filtering i.e. who you live/work nearest to
relationships tend to form based on practicality i.e. who is easier to form a relationship with
Kerckhoff & Davis (1962) concluded people apply a set of criteria - filters - which narrow down the field of availables to a field of desirables who represent the best choice in terms of potential partner
a filter in a romantic relationship is any parameter that is applied to a set of criteria used to sort the ‘sheep from the goats
Filters are entirely subjective as one person’s idea of ‘desirable’ is another person’s idea of underisable