An explanation of attraction suggesting that ppl develop relationships by applying filters such as social demographic, attitudes, complementary of needs. To narrow down the pool of ppl
Social demography
Variables such as age, social background and proximity. Ppl whom we do not come into contact with due to these variables
Attitudes
Similar views and beliefs= easier communication within one another
Complementarity
Refers to how well two ppl fit together and meet each others needs
Support for Filter theory
Study where couples with similar educational level and age at the start of the relationship were more likely to stay together. Demonstrating the importance of sociodemographic factors such as age
Evidence against filter theory
Compared with 20-30 years ago, people nowadays are more likely to develop relationships with someone further from their geographical proximity (LDR). This makes this theory lack temporal validity as it is outdated.
