relationship formation

• What does the cognitive approach focus on in relationship formation?

  Internal mental processes affecting feelings and behavior
• How do schemas influence relationship formation?

  • Govern feelings and actions towards others
  • Example: Halo effect links attractiveness to good qualities
  • Influence interest in forming relationships
• What is the halo effect?

  Belief that attractive people have good qualities
• How do self-schemas affect relationship formation?

  They influence how we feel about ourselves
• What role do internal mental processes play in relationship formation?

  They shape perceptions of self and others
• How might first impressions affect relationship desires?

  They influence willingness to pursue further contact
• Why is memory important in relationship formation?

  It influences willingness to form new relationships
• How do positive memories of past relationships affect new relationships?

  They encourage forming new relationships
• What happens if someone has negative memories of past relationships?

  They may be reluctant to form new relationships
• What is the matching hypothesis in relationship formation?

  • Self-perception of attractiveness influences partner choice
  • Attracted to those perceived as matching in attractiveness
  • Strong self-concept leads to pursuing highly attractive partners
• How does self-concept affect relationship choices according to the matching hypothesis?

  It influences who we feel we can approach
• What might someone with a low self-perception of attractiveness do?

  They may avoid attractive partners to prevent rejection