What is the fundamental assumption about

What is the fundamental assumption about interpersonal attraction? Explain.


We are attracted to people/things whose presence is rewarding.
o
Direct/indirect rewards
o
Similarity
o
Comfortableness
o
Exercise of free will
o Faces that are easier to process [indicate physical fitness, nurturance, etc.]
o Scents linked to genetic fitness/variability
o
Waist-to-hip ratio linked to fertility
o
Shoulder-to-hip ratio linked to physical status/prowess
°
°
Direct vs. indirect rewards in relationships

Direct rewards include:
o Material items (i.e. wedding rings, etc.)
o
Physical contact
o
Interest/approval
o
Affection
o
Laughter
o
Smiles

Indirect rewards include:
o Benefits that are merely associated with our interactions with our partner.
o
Pursuit of partners that may benefit our offspring


Physical attractiveness (i.e. facial symmetry)
o
Things that connect people to us (i.e. similar names, common birthdays, etc.)
o
Settings/situations
o
Misattribution of arousal
°
°
What is misattribution of arousal? How does it influence relationship development? Give
examples.

How does proximity play a role in our romantic relationships and friendships?

Our friendships and romances grow out of interactions with those who are nearby because:
o
People become familiar
o
It’s convenient
o Easier to enjoy rewards
°
°
Similarity:

Why do we like people who are similar to us?
o
Reassuring/validating
o
Convergence of goals, desires, needs, etc.
o
Ease of interaction
o Familiarity leads to comfort, security, etc.
o
Approval from others (i.e. friends, family, co-workers, etc.)
o
Anticipate greater acceptance
o
Similarity

Expected liking

Attraction

In what ways do we like people to be similar?
o
Demographics (i.e. age, culture, ethnicity, religion, race, education, IQ, etc.)
o
Personality
o Values/attitudes
o
Level of attractiveness