Download Theories of Attraction

Theories of Attraction
Attraction, Mate Selection and
Romance
Diversity in Marriage
• Only 10% of marriages around the world are
truly monogamous for life.
• Cohabiting couples
• Same sex couples
• Serial monogamy
– marriage to several spouses
– one after the other
Theory of Natural Selection
• Women were attracted to men who were
good providers
• Men were attracted to women who were
healthy enough to have give birth to healthy
children
Social Homogamy
• People fall in love with those who live nearby,
belong to the same social group, etc.
• We are attracted to others who share the
same values, culture, and lifestyles
• We are attracted to people who look like
ourselves
Ideal Mate Theory
• Attraction is based on a the image of a
person’s ideal mate that they carry in their
heads.
• Everyone has an unconscious ideal man or
women
• Often based on life experience
Fair Exchange Theory
• We are attracted to people who have different
strengths than we do.
• Example: an older man might marry a younger woman
• An outgoing person might marry a quiet and shy
person.
• (see page 209)
Romantic Love
• Sometimes all the right qualities aren’t
enough without it…
• Includes:
1. Passion – strong sexual attraction
2. Intimacy – close friendship develops over
time
3. Commitment – develops as each partner
benefits from the relationship.