Action assignment 3 (Role of attraction) Consider a relationship you are currently in. This can be a romantic relationship or a (good) friend. Reflect on how the relationship illustrates the concepts explained in the text.
After reflecting on the relationship, write answers to the following questions.
How important is it for your romantic partner or friend to be attractive? Why is it important or not important? –> 1 pt.
What factors do you find most attractive in your romantic partner or friend? Describe at least 2 factors and explain. –> 2 pts.
What is the ‘attractiveness halo effect’ and what role did it play in the creation of the relationship? Explain. If it didn’t play a role, explain why not. –> 1 pt.
What is the ‘mere exposure effect’ and what role did it play in the creation of the relationship? Explain. If it didn’t play a role, explain why not. –> 1 pt.
What is the ‘good genes hypothesis’ and what role did it play in the creation of the relationship? Explain. If it didn’t play a role, explain why not. –> 1 pt.
Comparing the ‘attractiveness halo effect’, the ‘mere exposure effect’ and the ‘good genes hypothesis’, which of the 3 theories do you think provides the most compelling explanation for why we find certain people attractive? Why? Explain your answer
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Introduction:
In this assignment, we will explore the role of attraction in relationships. Specifically, we will analyze the concepts explained in the text and apply them to a current relationship, either romantic or a close friendship. By reflecting on the relationship, we will address questions related to the importance of attractiveness, the factors that contribute to attraction, and the influence of theories such as the attractiveness halo effect, the mere exposure effect, and the good genes hypothesis. Finally, we will critically evaluate these theories and determine which one provides the most compelling explanation for why we find certain people attractive.
1. How important is it for your romantic partner or friend to be attractive? Why is it important or not important? (1 pt)
The importance of attractiveness in a romantic partner or friend varies from person to person. For some individuals, physical appearance plays a significant role as it may initially attract them to the person. However, it is important to note that while physical attraction can be influential, it should not be the sole basis for the relationship’s success or longevity. Companionate qualities such as trust, loyalty, and emotional compatibility often carry more weight in sustaining a healthy and fulfilling relationship. Thus, while attractiveness may be initially desirable, it is not the sole determinant of a successful and meaningful relationship.
2. What factors do you find most attractive in your romantic partner or friend? Describe at least 2 factors and explain. (2 pts)
The factors that attract individuals to their romantic partners or friends can vary significantly. While these factors are subjective, two commonly cited aspects of attractiveness are personality and shared interests. A person’s personality traits like kindness, empathy, intelligence, and a good sense of humor can foster a deep connection and emotional bond. Moreover, shared interests provide an opportunity for mutual understanding and enjoyment, which reinforces the relationship. When individuals can connect intellectually and emotionally with their partner or friend, it enhances the overall attractiveness of the relationship.
3. What is the ‘attractiveness halo effect’ and what role did it play in the creation of the relationship? Explain. If it didn’t play a role, explain why not. (1 pt)
The attractiveness halo effect refers to the cognitive bias where individuals perceive physically attractive people to have other positive qualities. In the creation of a relationship, this effect can play a role by influencing a person’s initial impression of their partner or friend. If someone is physically appealing, they may be perceived as more intelligent, confident, and socially competent, even if these traits are not objectively observed. However, it is important to note that the attractiveness halo effect may not play a significant role in all relationships. If individuals prioritize qualities beyond physical appearance or have a deeper understanding of the person beyond their looks, the halo effect may have minimal impact on the formation of the relationship.
4. What is the ‘mere exposure effect’ and what role did it play in the creation of the relationship? Explain. If it didn’t play a role, explain why not. (1 pt)
The mere exposure effect suggests that people tend to develop a preference for things or individuals they are frequently exposed to. In the context of a relationship, this effect can play a role in the creation of a bond. Regular interaction between individuals allows them to become familiar with each other’s habits, interests, and personalities. This familiarity often breeds comfort and a sense of connection, leading to increased attraction and the formation of a relationship. However, if limited exposure or infrequent interactions characterize the relationship, the mere exposure effect may not substantially influence its creation.
5. What is the ‘good genes hypothesis’ and what role did it play in the creation of the relationship? Explain. If it didn’t play a role, explain why not. (1 pt)
The good genes hypothesis proposes that humans instinctively seek out mates who possess traits indicating good genetic quality and reproductive fitness. These traits may include physical attractiveness, symmetry, and indicators of overall health. In the creation of a relationship, the good genes hypothesis can play a role by attracting individuals to traits associated with good genetic quality. However, it is important to note that this hypothesis may not be a significant factor in all relationships. Personal values, emotional connection, and shared values may outweigh the influence of the good genes hypothesis when forming a bond.
6. Comparing the ‘attractiveness halo effect’, the ‘mere exposure effect’, and the ‘good genes hypothesis’, which of the three theories do you think provides the most compelling explanation for why we find certain people attractive? Why? Explain your answer. (2 pts)
Among the three theories, the most compelling explanation for why we find certain people attractive would be the mere exposure effect. This effect highlights the influence of familiarity and consistent interaction on individuals’ preference for others. Frequent exposure allows us to become acquainted with someone’s personality, interests, and habits, ultimately fostering a sense of comfort and connection. Unlike the attractiveness halo effect and the good genes hypothesis, which are primarily based on physical appearance, the mere exposure effect takes into account the development of emotional bonds and shared experiences. It recognizes that attraction goes beyond superficial qualities and is more influenced by the familiarity and compatibility fostered through consistent interaction.
