Critically Compare the Factors that Affect Interpersonal Attraction and the Development of Relationships

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Critically Compare the Factors that Affect Interpersonal Attraction and the Development of Relationships

Interpersonal attraction is the attraction between people which often lead to friendships or romantic and sexual relationship between two people. This essay will aim to critically compare and evaluate the factors that affect interpersonal attraction leading to the development of long-term relationships, evaluating key research, which has been conducted in this area of social psychology.

There are several reasons or motives underlying interpersonal attraction. The need for affiliation (naff), need for intimacy and avoidance of loneliness. Most humans are social animals who enjoy the company of others, therefore need to establish and maintain relationships with other fellow humans; this contact provides emotional support, a basis for social comparison and attention. The need for intimacy (nint) is a need to form and maintain close affectionate relationships with others and to share information about themselves and show concern for others.

Physical closeness or proximity is an important factor in interpersonal attraction. In order to meet two people must share close proximity, this helps in forming a close relationship. Research by Festinger, et al (1950 see PIP P.690) and Sigall (1973, see Gross, p.409) demonstrate this proximity effect. Festinger, et al, found that within a housing complex for married students two factors affected friendship formation, the sheer distance between the houses and the direction in which the houses faced. Sigal (1974) found that police recruits were likely to become friends with people they sat near (alphabetical seating). Closeness was more important than common interests, marital status age, e.t.c. Those two studies show that in these instances proximity is the most important factor in relationship formation, as people with different interests become friends when normally they would not have formed friendships. There are several reasons for the proximity effect in aiding interpersonal attraction. Proximity increases the likelihood of meeting someone and getting to know him or her better as there is a better chance to exchange information. In some cases getting to know another individual better can lead to dislike but in most cases this leads to a deeper relationship.

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Relationships may begin in situations where people have no choice but to interact with each other or in situations where there is freedom to associate or not. Similarity is the match between two people’s interests, attitudes values and background, this can fuel the development of a relationship based on proximity. Newcomb (1961) found in a college housing study that students with similar in background, attitudes and values formed friendships. This is because people perceive those who are similar to them as attractive because this validates their own self worth and the assumption is that people with different views have ...

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