The attraction–similarity model and dating couples: Projection, perceived similarity, and psychological benefits

Abstract

According to the attraction–similarity model, relationship quality leads to perceptions of partner–self similarity. Relationship quality and perceived similarity then provide psychological benefits for the perceiver. Across 3 studies, relationship quality positively predicted perceptions of similarity. Study 1 indicated that for moderate, but not low, relationship‐relevant traits, individuals projected the self onto the dating partner as a way of perceiving similarities. In Study 2, priming high, as opposed to low, relationship quality led to greater perceived similarity on the moderately relevant traits. Study 3 indicated greater perceived similarity between self and dating partner than between self and average same‐gender student on the moderately relevant traits. Relationship quality and perceived similarity with the dating partner on the moderately relevant traits also predicted psychological benefits.

How gender role stereotypes affect attraction in an online dating scenario

“…Perceived similarity between partners in a relationship is associated with higher relationship quality (Morry, Kito & Ortiz, 2011).…”

“…Married couples who met online through eHarmony.com had similar personalities and interests before they ever met (Gonzaga, Carter & Buckwalter, 2010). Perceived similarity between partners in a relationship is associated with higher relationship quality (Morry et al, 2011). However, none of this would come to be if the individuals did not like each other's profile pictures from the beginning.…”

Interpretations of Differences and Similarities in Intimate Partners According to Dialectic Approach

“…Duck's (1994) statement that in every phase of the relationship both differences and similarities are detected means that partners who have been in the relationship not for a long time are aware of this but because they keep getting to know each other they are very pleased with their relationship. When this is evaluated according to Morry's (2011) the attraction-similarity model, it can be seen that even though partners have many differences, they cannot be defined as dissolve relationships. However based on partners who have a long time relationship, differences reduce and turn into similarity and the relationship becomes much more satisfactory for the partners.…”

Correlates of Couples’ Perceived Similarity at the Initiation Stage and Currently

“…Although the classic similarity-attraction hypothesis suggests that similarity leads to attraction and satisfaction, equal or stronger evidence suggests that attraction/satisfaction leads to perceived similarity (Morry, Kito, & Ortiz, 2011). Those who are more satisfied in their relationship perceive greater similarity, and conversely, dissatisfaction can lead to perceptions of dissimilarity.…”

“…Overall, I expect to find that the participants will perceive more similarity with their partner currently than retrospectively when the relationship began. 2005, 2007Morry, Kito, & Ortiz, 2011). Those who are more satisfied in their relationship perceive greater similarity, and conversely, dissatisfaction can lead to perceptions of dissimilarity.…”