Filter Theory

• who proposed the filter theory?


  Kerckhoff and Davis
• What does the filter theory of attraction suggest?

  That we choose who we are attracted to in terms of romantic partners using a series of filters that narrow down the 'field of availables' from which we might make our choice
• according to the theory....?

  Different filters are prominent at different stages of partner selection
• what is choice of partners affected by?

  Factors limiting the availability of those possible to select from
• What does the series of filters serve to do?

  'Thin down the field' to those available
• what are the 3 filters?

  1. similarity of social demographics
  2. similarity of attitudes
  3. complementarity
• What is the first filter?

  similarity of social demographics
• describe the filter ' similarity of social demographics'?

  During the early stages of a courtship , demographic similarities (eg class, where you live) are likely to be most important factors in forming romantic relationships
• give 3 examples of demographic similarities?

  where you live

  class

  religion
• what is the second filter?

  similarity of attitudes
• describe the filter ' similarity of attitudes' ?

  As the relationship develops, a similarity of attitudes and underlying values becomes more important in determining whether the romantic relationship continues
• What is the 3rd filter?


  complementarity
• how many filters are there?

  three
• describe the filter ' complementarity'?


  Finally, partners are assessed in terms of whether they are compatible, eg whether their personality traits complement the individuals own traits
• What is the main focus of Filter Theory in the context of relationships?


  It examines how demographic variables influence the development of relationships.
• Who conducted a study in 1950 that observed friendships in a block of apartments?


  Festinger et al.
• What did Festinger et al. find about students living in the same building?

  Students were 10 times more likely to form friendships with those living in their own building.
• How does the concept of geographical location relate to Filter Theory?


  Geographical location is a demographic variable that influences relationship development.
• What question does the study raise about the application of Filter Theory?


  It questions whether Filter Theory applies to romantic relationships.
• What did Byrne find in 1961 regarding strangers with similar attitudes?

  Strangers with similar attitudes were more likely to be liked than those with different attitudes.
• How are people perceived when they share similar core beliefs and values?


  They are often seen as more attractive.
• What did Byrne note about the importance of similarity of attitudes in relationships?

  Similarity of attitudes is especially important in the early stages of relationships.
• What role does self-disclosure play in relationships according to the study?

  Self-disclosure helps partners discover similarities, leading to greater intimacy.
• What happens if partners have very little in common?

  Relationships rarely progress beyond the "first date."
• What is the significance of the presence or absence of similarities in relationships?

  It can determine the level of intimacy and progression in the relationship.
• How does the study by Byrne (1997) contribute to the understanding of attraction?


  It emphasizes the importance of similarity of attitudes in the early stages of relationships.
• What characteristics are associated with people who share similar attitudes?

  They are often judged to be more intelligent, better informed, more moral, and better adjusted.