Scientists have been studying attraction for decades to understand why people are attracted to each other and what factors influence that attraction. It is generally agreed upon that there are physical and non-physical aspects of attraction, but they can be difficult to separate since they often overlap. Physical attraction refers to external characteristics such as height, weight, hair color, eye color, facial symmetry, body type, etc., while non-physical attraction refers to personality traits like intelligence, humor, kindness, ambition, etc.
When it comes to short-term partnerships, physical attraction is usually more important than non-physical attraction because people tend to look for someone who looks good and shares similar interests during short-term dating situations.
If you're looking for a one-night stand or a casual fling, you might want someone who has a toned physique, a nice smile, or some other desirable feature. Non-physical qualities may come into play later if you decide to become friends or start dating. On the other hand, long-term relationships typically require compatibility in both physical and non-physical areas. You don't just want someone with whom you share physical chemistry; you also need someone who shares your values and interests. This means that physical attraction becomes less important over time, and non-physical qualities such as loyalty, trustworthiness, emotional stability, and shared interests become more crucial.
Another difference between short-term and long-term partner selection is the role of initial attraction versus continued investment. Initial attraction is what draws two people together initially, while continued investment is what keeps them together over time. In short-term partnerships, initial attraction is essential since there isn't much time to build anything else beyond that.
In long-term relationships, continued investment is necessary because they rely on a deeper connection built through shared experiences and mutual understanding.
The process of attraction differs significantly depending on whether you are seeking a short-term or long-term relationship. Physical attributes are vital in short-term dating but less so in long-term relationships, where non-physical traits become more critical.
Initial attraction plays a larger role in short-term relationships than it does in long-term ones, which rely more on continued investment. By understanding these differences, individuals can better navigate the attraction process and choose partners most suitable for their needs and goals.
How does attraction differ between short-term and long-term partner selection?
The process of selecting a partner for either short-term or long-term relationship is influenced by various factors such as physical attractiveness, shared interests, values, beliefs, background, social norms, and cultural practices (Kelly & Kelly, 2017).