What factors play a role in attraction?

This paper explains the role of several factors in attraction. Specifically, it discusses the importance of physical attractiveness, proximity, similarity, and reciprocity.

Physical attractiveness is often the most important factor in determining whether two people will be attracted to each other. Studies have shown that people are more likely to be attracted to those who they perceive to be good-looking (Eagly & Ashmore, 2009). Additionally, people tend to overestimate the importance of physical appearance when it comes to attraction; in one study, participants rated physical attractiveness as the most important factor in a romantic partner, even though it was only moderately correlated with overall relationship satisfaction (Perilloux, Eastwick, Finkel, & Eagly, 2010).

Proximity also plays a role in attraction. In general, people are more likely to be attracted to those who they see on a regular basis (Byrne & Griffin, 2005). This effect is known as the “propinquity effect.” Additionally, people are more likely to be attracted to those who live close to them; in one study, participants rated individuals who lived within 10 miles (16 km) as more attractive than those who lived farther away (Dyrenforth, Boschloo, Luchies, & Lucas-Thompson, 2010).

Similarity is also a important factor in attraction. People tend to be attracted to others who share similar characteristics, such as age, race, religion, and educational background (Byrne & Griffin, 2005). Additionally, people are more likely to be attracted to those who have similar interests and values (Eastwick & Finkel, 2008).

Reciprocity is another important factor in attraction. People are more likely to be attracted to those who are interested in them (Gangestad & Simpson, 2000). Additionally, people tend to reciprocate the level of interest that they receive from others; if someone is interested in them, they are more likely to be interested in that person as well (Eastwick & Finkel, 2008).

In conclusion, several factors play a role in attraction. Physical attractiveness, proximity, similarity, and reciprocity are all important factors to consider when trying to understand why two people might be attracted to each other.

References:

Byrne, D., & Griffin, B. (2005). Attraction and relationships: A new way of thinking about person-environment interactions. American Psychologist, 60(5), 293-301.

Dyrenforth, P. S., Boschloo, L., Luchies, L. B., & Lucas-Thompson, R. G. (2010). Predicting relationship stability from four aspects of personality matching. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 99(2), 200-212.