Chapter 11 - Attraction Part 1: Apr 13, 2006

Friendships Humans have social need – those with close friendships are happier What factors determine friendships? 1. Proximity – most powerful predictor. We like those we are close to/live with. Why?

Friendships 2. Physical Attractiveness –Predicts dating frequency and nature of interactions with others. Matching phenomenon – pair off with people of similar attractiveness (friends and partners). –What effect does this have?

Physical Attractiveness Influences adults’ judgments of kids – Attractive child rated more intelligent (even though descriptions didn’t differ). “What is beautiful is good” stereotype –Any real differences?

Attractiveness Ratings Although beauty standards vary across time & culture, in general, we prefer – –1) –2) Evolutionary explanation?

Liking and Similarity Which causes which? –Similarity  Liking or Liking  Similarity But why do opposites attract? –Complementarity hypothesis –Any evidence for it?

Theories of Love Passionate v Companionate Love –Companionate – feelings of intimacy and affection not accompanied by passion –Passionate – intense longing; emotional roller-coaster How do these change over time?

Sternberg’s Triangular Theory 3 ingredients in love – passion, intimacy, and commitment –Defs of each? Combine in varying degrees to determine kind of love

Sternberg’s Taxonomy of Love 3 components combine in varying degrees to determine kind of love –Only intimacy  ? –Only passion  ? –Only commitment  ? –Passion + Intimacy  ? –Intimacy + Commitment  ? –Passion + Commitment  ? –All 3  ?

“Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus” video 6 couples describe their relationships Notice: –What are some themes you consistently hear from the women? From the men?