What is the filter theory of romantic relationships?
Suggests we narrow potential partners through a series of filters to find a suitable match.
Who developed the filter theory?
Kerckhoff and Davis (1962).
What does the theory aim to explain?
Why some people form relationships and others don’t—based on similarity and compatibility.
What is the first level of filtering?
Social demography.
What is social demography?
Factors like location, class, age, religion—affect who we meet.
How does social demography influence attraction?
We form relationships with people we are socially close to—‘field of availables’.
What is the second filter in the model?
Similarity in attitudes.
What does similarity in attitudes mean in this context?
Shared values, beliefs, and interests strengthen early connection.
Why is similarity important early in relationships?
Increases communication and bonding; reduces conflict.
What is the third filter?
Complementarity of needs.
What is complementarity of needs?
How well partners meet each other’s emotional and practical needs.
How does complementarity promote long-term satisfaction?
Promotes balance and satisfaction—opposites can attract over time.
What research supports the role of similarity in attraction?
Byrne (1997): similarity in attitudes linked to greater attraction and longevity.
What research challenges the filter theory?
Levinger (1974): failed to replicate filter effects; length of relationship may be more important than filters.
AO3 - How has modern technology challenged the first filter?
Online platforms bypass social demography—people now meet across class, distance, and culture.
AO3 - What are methodological issues with filter theory research?
Self-report = social desirability;
Correlational = no causality.
AO3 - How does the filter theory lack temporal validity?
Outdated—based on 1960s heteronormative dating norms and limited cultural context.
