Factors affecting attraction: Filter Theory

Kerckhoff and Davis (1962): when selecting partners from a range of who are available, people will use filters to “narrow down” the choice to who they have the best chance of a sustainable relationship with.

• Research: Kerckhoff and Davis 
  • longitudinal study of 2 groups student couples (together≥18months). Over 7 months couples completed questionnaires based on their view + attitudes which were compared. 
  • results suggested similarity of attitudes was most important factor in the group who have been together for ≤ 18 months - supported by self-disclosure research 

Levels of filter

#1: Social demography - relationship with people who are close + similar to us 

• • Proximity: form relationships wiv people geographically close.
    • Due to chance meet/speak…