Filter theory A03

Question 1

How does Kerckhoff & Davis’s study support filter theory?

Answer 1

Kerckhoff & Davis (1962) studied 94 dating couples in the US and found that similarity of attitudes was most important in the first 18 months (short-term) of relationships, while complementarity of needs predicted relationship success in the long-term. This supports the idea of sequential filters.

Question 2

Why might Filter Theory lack relevance in modern relationships?

Answer 2

Filter theory assumes proximity and social demography (e.g. class, religion) are initial filters. However, this may lack temporal validity due to globalisation and online dating, which allow people to form romantic relationships across vast distances and social boundaries. As a result, the first filter (social demography) is often bypassed, reducing the explanatory power of the theory in contemporary settings.