9.2.2 Physical Attractiveness

• What is physical attractiveness defined as in the context of romantic relationships?

  Appealing physical qualities
• Physical attractiveness is a significant factor in the early stages of romantic relationships because it forms the basis for initial attraction.
• The halo effect suggests that attractive people are viewed more positively, with assumptions made about their personality traits like intelligence and kindness.
• What is the formula for the halo effect in terms of positive perception?

  $\frac{\text{Attractive Person's Appearance}}{\text{Individual's Bias}}$
• The matching hypothesis proposes that people tend to form relationships with those who are similar in attractiveness to themselves.
• What is the key role of physical attractiveness in romantic relationships?

  Basis for initial attraction
• The halo effect is a cognitive bias where positive qualities are attributed to individuals based on their physical attractiveness.
• Positive assumptions resulting from the halo effect can foster favorable treatment and opportunities for attractive individuals.
• How is intelligence perceived differently for attractive versus unattractive individuals?

  Higher for attractive individuals
• The matching hypothesis suggests that people choose partners who are similar to themselves in terms of physical attractiveness.
• What is the formula for matching probability according to the matching hypothesis?

  \frac{\text{Similar Attractiveness}}{\text{Combined Pool of Singles}}</latex>
• Arrange the evolutionary explanations for preferences in physical attractiveness:

  1️⃣ Symmetry signals good health

  2️⃣ Youthfulness indicates reproductive potential

  3️⃣ Health indicators reflect fitness
• Cultural norms significantly influence standards of physical attractiveness.
• Match the cultural influence with its description:

  Media Influence ↔️ Shapes beauty ideals

  Societal Expectations ↔️ Affect social norms

  Historical Context ↔️ Changes standards over time
• Western cultures often emphasize slim body types due to media representation.
• The matching hypothesis suggests that people form relationships with those of similar attractiveness to avoid rejection and enhance compatibility.
• What are the perceived qualities of a person that others find appealing called?

  Physical attractiveness
• Physical attractiveness significantly influences initial attraction as it often forms the first impression.
• The Halo effect suggests that attractive people are viewed more positively.
• What is the formula illustrating the Halo effect?

  Positive Perception = \frac{\text{Attractive Person's Appearance}}{\text{Individual's Bias}}</latex>
• The matching hypothesis posits that people form relationships with those of similar attractiveness levels.
• What is the primary goal of the matching hypothesis in forming relationships?

  Enhance compatibility
• The Halo effect can lead to positive assumptions about an attractive person's intelligence.
• The matching hypothesis suggests that people seek partners of similar perceived attractiveness to avoid rejection.
• How does the Halo effect influence perceptions of attractive individuals?

  Creates positive assumptions
• The Halo effect can be expressed using a formula that includes individual bias.
• Attractive individuals are often perceived as more intelligent compared to those viewed as less attractive.
• Match the trait with how it is perceived for attractive vs. unattractive individuals:

  Intelligence ↔️ Higher for attractive, lower for unattractive

  Sociability ↔️ More sociable for attractive, less for unattractive

  Career Success ↔️ More likely for attractive, less for unattractive
• What is the main goal of the matching hypothesis in partner selection?

  Minimize risk of rejection
• The matching hypothesis aims to minimize the risk of rejection in partner selection.
• Compatibility in relationships is enhanced by shared levels of physical appeal according to the matching hypothesis.
• What evolutionary factors contribute to preferences for physical attractiveness?

  Symmetry, youthfulness, health
• Symmetry in physical appearance signals genetic stability and freedom from developmental disturbances.
• Match the evolutionary factor with its explanation:

  Symmetry ↔️ Signals genetic stability and good health

  Youthfulness ↔️ Indicates higher reproductive potential

  Health Indicators ↔️ Reflect good health and strong immunity
• Cultural norms influence standards of physical attractiveness across societies.
• Media influence is an example of a cultural factor that shapes perceptions of attractiveness.
• How has historical context influenced beauty standards over time?

  Plump figures were favored
• Research on physical attractiveness often overlooks long-term relationship dynamics.
• In what areas of life does physical attractiveness have a significant influence?

  Social interactions, employment, relationships
• Attractive individuals are often perceived as more intelligent due to the Halo effect.