Sociocultural Explanations/Theories of Mate Selection

1. Sociocultural Explanations/Theories of Mate Selection Role Theory Value theory Murstien’s Sequential Theory Filter Theory Reiss’ Wheel Theory

2. Role Theory • The basic premise of role theory is that couples with similar role definitions or expectations are more likely to marry.

3. Value Theory • The basic premise of value theory is that people with similar values are more likely to select each other as mates. The theory posits: 1. people with similar backgrounds learn similar values; 2. interacting with people who have values similar to your own is rewarding and enhances communication; and 3. rewarding interaction leads to satisfaction with your partner.

4. Murstien’s Sequential Theory • This theory asserts that people go through three stages that lead to marriage. 1. Stimulus Stage 2. Value Stage 3. Role Stage 4. Marriage

5. Stimulus Stage • During this stage, the couple initiates the relationship. Whether or not one tries to establish a relationship with someone depends on two things. 1. the physical, social, and reputational attributes of a potential partner. 2. one’s perception of his/her own qualities or attributes.

6. Value Stage • The couple explores each other’s values. • If they discover they hold similar values on important issues, commitment strengthens. • If their values on important issues differ, the relationship is more likely to end.

7. Role Stage • The couple eventually explores each other’s role expectations. • If they agree about role expectations, commitment to each other grows stronger • The more they like how the other performs roles (social, religious, sexual, etc.), commitment becomes even stronger.

8. Filter Theory Filter Theory assumes people go through several “filters” that increasingly narrows the pool of potential mates to only one. The filters are: 1. Propinquity 2. Social Background 3. Attractiveness 4. Compatibility 5. Balance Sheet