1. Reward Theory of Attraction
Most good relationships can be seen as an exchange of benefits
Reward theory of attraction (Aronson, 2004): We like people best who give us maximum rewards at minimum cost
4 powerful sources of reward that predict interpersonal attraction:
Proximity, similarity, self-disclosure, physical attractiveness

2. Proximity
“Absence makes the heart grow fonder” or “Out of sight, out of mind”?
Principle of proximity (nearness): when two individuals are equally attractive, you are more likely to become friends with the nearest one
Why?
The rewards are equal, but the the cost is less in time and convenience
Increased contact often increases people’s liking for each other

3. Similarity
The similarity principle: people are attracted to people who are most similar to themselves
If two people discover that they have the same tastes in lots of things, they have just exchanged compliments that reward each other for their tastes and attitudes!
So…opposites do not attract!

4. Self-Disclosure
Good friends and lovers share intimate details about themselves
The more we share, the more attached we become
It takes time to reach this, as self-disclosure usually comes after a sense of trust has been established

5. Physical Attractiveness
Is beauty only skin deep?
Good looks are a social asset
Ex: potential employers, children rating
What people say and do are often two different things
Men seem to be slightly more influenced by looks than women
Disadvantages to being a “hottie” include being seen as more vain and materialistic and cold if they are good looking and shy

6. Sternberg’s Triangular Theory of Love
Love can have 3 components:
Passion, intimacy, commitment
Various forms of love are combinations of the 3 components

7. Types of Love Suggested By Sternberg
Romantic Love: high on passion and intimacy but low on commitment
Liking and Friendship: intimacy but not passion and commitment
Infatuation: high on passion, not yet developed intimacy or commitment
Complete Love: involves all 3: passion, intimacy, commitment

8. Your Task:
Identify at least one song that you think characterizes each type of love as identified by Sternberg:
Romantic love
Liking and Friendship
Infatuation
Complete Love