What is the similarity attraction theory?

Definition. The similarity-attraction effect refers to the widespread tendency of people to be attracted to others [Page 876]who are similar to themselves in important respects. Attraction means not strictly physical attraction but, rather, liking for or wanting to be around the person.

What is the relationship between similarity and attraction?

The attraction–similarity hypothesis predicts that in ongoing relationships projection of the self onto the other person is the result of the attraction (e.g., satisfaction, liking, loving) between the two individuals. That is, attraction (i.e., satis- faction) leads to perceptions of similarity.

Does similarity cause attraction?

Similarity is believed to more likely lead to liking and attraction than differences. Numerous studies have focused on the role of physical attractiveness to personal attraction.

Who made the similarity attraction theory?

The theory that similarities or sameness attracts has been formalized in research since the mid-1900s. Researchers Ellen Berscheid and Elaine Hatfield conducted research in 1969 that showed participants were more likely to desire a relationship with those that were seen to share attitudes.

What are the three types of attraction?

The three main types of attraction are: physical attraction, or being attracted to someone based on their physical looks or features; social attraction, which involves being attracted to someone based on their personality; and task attraction, which involves being attracted to someone based on their abilities.

What is theory of similarity?

Similarity/attraction theory posits that people like and are attracted to others who are similar, rather than dissimilar, to themselves; “birds of a feather,” the adage goes, “flock together.” Social scientific research has provided considerable support for tenets of the theory since the mid-1900s.

What increases attraction?

Many factors influence whom people are attracted to. They include physical attractiveness, proximity, similarity, and reciprocity: In the early stages of dating, people are more attracted to partners whom they consider to be physically attractive. Men are more likely to value physical attractiveness than are women.

What is the theory of similarity and attraction?

Similarity/Attraction Theory. BIBLIOGRAPHY. Similarity/attraction theory posits that people like and are attracted to others who are similar, rather than dissimilar, to themselves; “ birds of a feather, ” the adage goes, “ flock together. ” Social scientific research has provided considerable support for tenets of the theory since the mid-1900s.

Which is the most common laboratory paradigm for similarity attraction?

The most common laboratory paradigm in similarity-attraction research is the phantom-other technique ( Smith, 1957; Byrne, 1961 ). In laboratory experiments using the phantom-other technique, the target is often unknown to participants.

How is the similarity-attraction effect ( SAE ) explained?

The feeling of connectedness experienced in computer-mediated relationships can be explained by the similarity-attraction effect (SAE). Though SAE is well established in psychology, the effects of some types of similarity have not yet been explored.

Why are people attracted to people with similar attitudes?

A large body of research investigates the role that similarity of attitudes plays in attraction. According to studies by Ellen Berscheid and Elaine H. Walster (1969) and Donn Byrne (1971) in general people are most attracted to others who share similar attitudes.