Factors Affecting Attraction in Romantic Relationships (AQA A Level Psychology): Exam Questions

Outline one strength and one limitation of self-disclosure as an explanation for attraction in romantic relationships.

In a study of filter theory, a psychology student used a group of female participants. Each participant was shown two descriptions.

• Description 1 described a man with a similar social background to that of the female participants.

• Description 2 described a man with a different social background to that of the female participants.

The student asked participants to judge how much they liked each description on a scale of 1–10.

The student decided to test for a significant difference between the judgements made for each description. He proposed using an unrelated t-test to analyse the data.

Discuss the filter theory of attraction. Refer to the likely outcome of the student’s study in your answer.

Read the item and answer the question that follows.

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.