Wize University Psychology Textbook > Social Psychology
Interpersonal Attraction
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Interpersonal Attraction
Interpersonal attraction forms the bedrock of relationships between individuals, and can be platonic (friendships) or romantic
Factors that can increase interpersonal attraction:
1) Proximity - How physically close are they to you? How frequently do you see them (mere exposure effect)?
2) Similarity - How much do you have in common? How many shared beliefs, attitudes, or values do you have?
3) Physical attractiveness - How attractive do you find them? Beauty is often (incorrectly) associated with positive values and personality traits
Theories of interpersonal attraction:
1) Social exchange theory - people evaluate their relationships based on the relative benefits (companionship, satisfaction of physical and emotional needs) and costs (time and cost investment, compromise)
2) Social structure theory - most of the differences in sexual and romantic preferences between men and women are due to societal structures, not evolutionary pressures. For example, women prioritize the financial status of men less in societies where there is greater gender pay equality
3) Evolutionary theory - interpersonal attraction and preferences are influenced largely by evolutionary pressures and the desire to reproduce or enhance survival
Triangular theory of love - identifies different types of love based on passion (romantic & sexual desire), commitment (staying with your partner), and intimacy (closeness)
1) Romantic love = passion + intimacy
2) Fatuous love = passion + commitment
3) Companionate love = commitment + intimacy