Factors Affecting Attraction (Relationships Model Answers) (Paper 3 Model Answers)

Anji is trying Internet dating for the first time. She is considering what information about herself to put in her online profile.

Friend A tells Anji not to be shy and that she should disclose everything.

Friend B warns Anji about the anonymity of the Internet and says people can be very critical so she should give out limited information at the start.

Use your knowledge of self-disclosure in virtual relationships to explain the advice given by Anji’s friends. ( 4 marks) 

Model Answer

Friend A's advice aligns with the concept known as the "stranger-on-a-train effect." This effect, proposed by Bargh (2002), suggests that people feel more comfortable disclosing personal information to strangers in anonymous settings, such as online platforms. Friend A likely believes that by openly sharing everything, Anji can establish a sense of familiarity and connection with potential partners. 

On the other hand, Friend B's warning about disinhibition in virtual relationships highlights the potential risks associated with anonymity and deindividuation online. Anonymity allows individuals to adopt different personas and feel less accountable for their behavior. This can lead to disinhibition, where people may behave more boldly or critically in their interactions. Friend B's cautionary advice aims to protect Anji from potential negative experiences, such as encountering judgment or criticism due to disclosing too much information to strangers.

 

Which two of A, B, C, D and E are important factors in attraction according to the filter theory of attraction? ( 1 mark) 

Shade two boxes only. 

Model Answer

D & E

 

Read the item and then answer the questions that follow.

Teddy is discussing his girlfriend, Sasha. He says, ‘We were in the same year at university, both studying marketing. She was really good at the theoretical side and I was better when it came to practical work. We specialise in different areas now. I’m always proud to be seen out with Sasha. Other guys are really jealous when they see her. We tell each other everything though, no secrets in our relationship.’

Discuss factors affecting attraction in romantic relationships. Refer to Teddy’s comments in your answer.

(Total 16 marks)

Model Answer

Attraction in romantic relationships can be influenced by various factors, some of which are evident in Teddy's comments about his girlfriend, Sasha. One factor affecting attraction is self-disclosure, which refers to the sharing of personal information about oneself. Teddy mentions that he and Sasha tell each other everything, indicating a high level of self-disclosure in their relationship. This openness and vulnerability can enhance the sense of connection and intimacy between partners, contributing to their attraction.

Physical attractiveness is another influential factor. Teddy expresses pride in being seen with Sasha and mentions that other guys are jealous when they see her. This suggests that Sasha's physical appearance is perceived as attractive, which can contribute to Teddy's feelings of pride and desirability. Physical attractiveness is often considered a primary factor in initial attraction, as it can evoke positive evaluations and interest in pursuing a relationship.

Teddy's comments also align with the filter theory of attraction. According to this theory, individuals are attracted to those who pass through a series of filters, including social demographic, similarity, and complementarity. Teddy and Sasha were in the same year at university, studying marketing, indicating a shared social demographic. This similarity in educational background may have facilitated their initial connection. Teddy also mentions that Sasha excels in the theoretical side of marketing while he is better at the practical work. This complementarity in skills and specialisation can create a sense of compatibility and mutual support, further enhancing their attraction.

It is important to note that the factors influencing initial attraction may differ from those contributing to continuing attraction and the long-term success of a relationship. While physical attractiveness and shared demographics can play a role in the early stages, factors such as compatibility, emotional support, and meeting each other's needs become more significant as the relationship progresses. 

Additionally, evaluating the factors of attraction in the context of general relationship theories, such as exchange theory, can provide a broader understanding of the dynamics at play. Exchange theory suggests that relationships are based on a cost-benefit analysis, where individuals seek partners who provide them with benefits that outweigh the costs. This evaluation lens helps us consider factors beyond initial attraction, such as compatibility, emotional support, and meeting each other's needs. These factors become increasingly vital in the long-term success of a relationship, going beyond the initial stages of physical attractiveness or shared demographics.

By incorporating these evaluation points, we gain a more comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing attraction in romantic relationships. While self-disclosure is important, it needs to be balanced and appropriate for the relationship stage. Additionally, considering broader relationship theories, like exchange theory, helps us appreciate the ongoing dynamics that contribute to the longevity and satisfaction of the relationship. Taking these factors into account enhances the overall evaluation of the factors affecting attraction and their impact on romantic relationships.

 

Check out the Evolutionary Explanation of Relationships model answers here.

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