Filter Theory

• Kerckhoff and Davis (1962) proposed that for a relationship to form, it must pass through a series of three ‘filters’
• Each filter narrows down the group of people that we could form a relationship with
• Each filter represents key factors that are important at different stages of partner selection
• The first filter is called the social filter which is based on social and demographic variables. These people are likely to be similar in terms of their education, social background and economic viability
• The people that pass through the social filter make up the field of availables, who are a group of people we could potentially start a relationship with
• The second filter is called the individual filter which is based on a similarity of attitudes and values. A romantic relationship is more likely to progress if the couple share interests, attitudes and hobbies
• The people that pass the individual filter make up the field of

  desirables, where an individual will

  select a partner to start

  a relationship with
• The third filter is called the dyadic filter which is based on complementary needs. For a relationship to carry on, the ability to meet each others needs and want the same things becomes important
• If partners don’t complement each

  others needs, the relationship may

  break down and an individual may

  look for a different partner from the

  field of desirables
• Kerckoff and Davis’ (1962) research supports filter theory, it specially supports the second and third filters as both were cited as important. however, it doesn’t lend support to the first filter
• Kerckhoff and Davis (1962) used questionnaires to assess filter theory. However, the validity of the questionnaire responses can also be questioned since individual responses may not be a genuine representation of the factors that impact the formation of relationship. However, the study was longitudinal, which may give a representation of how relationships pass through the filters over time
• A limitation of filter theory is the division of the formation of relationships into stages. Relationships may be more fluid and dynamic than filter theory and this the theory doesn’t take into account of the pace of development of individual relationships
• Filter theory is based on western ideas of the factors that influence romantic relationships which may mean that filter theory can’t be applied to cultures outside of individualist cultures which limits the usefulness of the explanation
• The theory can’t be used to explain the formation of romantic relationships in collective cultures. Therefore, this theory can’t explain cultural variation in the formation of romantic relationships