Filter theory Flashcards
(16 cards)
Which researchers suggested filter theory?
Kerckhoff and Davis
What is filter theory?
When we are selecting from a range of people who are potentially available to them, not all partners are desirable so people use 3 filters to narrow down the choice of people they believe will produce the best sustainable relationship
What do social demographics refer to?
Ethnic group, level of education, religion, geographical location and social class
What is our realistic field of availables constrainted by?
It is constrainted by our social circumstances
Which people are discounted as a potential partner?
Anyone who is ‘too different’
What is the outcome of the first filter of social demography?
Homogamy meaning you are more likely to form a relationship with someone who is socially or culturally similar
What is the second filter of filter theory?
Similarity in attitudes
Similar attitudes were found to be important in the development of romantic relationships but only for…
those who had been together for less than 18 months
What does a similarity of basic values allow for?
Greater and deeper communication and self disclosure
What happens if similarity does not exist?
If partners have little in common the relationship will fizzle out
What is the 3rd filter of filter theory?
Complimentarity
What does research suggest partners need to be able to do for long term relationships?
Partners need to be able to meet each others needs
When do partners compliment each other?
When they have traits that the other person lacks
What is an example of complementarity?
One partner may like to nurture, whilst the other person in the relationship may like to be nurtured
At a later stage of the relationship…
Opposites attract
Why is complimentarity important?
It gives two romantic partners the feeling that together they form a whole and this adds depth to their relationship
