The media has bombarded the people with several notions and plenty more deceptions about romantic attraction, such that it has become more difficult to discern. In Deborah’s article, Science of the Sexual Attraction Factor, she pointed different factors that contribute towards romantic attraction. Generally, it is the physical attraction that first draws attention to a person. It can also refer to sexual attractiveness. Moreover, there also exists mental attraction, or signs of linkage and affection towards the other.
There is also intellectual attraction, which means they have a parallel critical view of the society and the things in general. Lastly, many people may immediately associate spiritual attraction with similar religious beliefs, but it actually refers to same awareness and appreciation of the body, mind, and soul. Amazingly though, it was determined from a scientific study that attraction is somewhat dependent on a set of genes called MHC, Major Histocompatibility Complex. [In a medical definition], the MHC molecules control the immune response through recognition of “self” and “non-self”… (Fix 1). The study showed that the mind is subconsciously choosing the ‘right’ partner which is defined to have MHC genes very different from one’s own.
Consequently after the initial attraction phases, the selection process contributes to the development of romantic love. The selection-process can be need-based; whereas one looks for a partner who can fulfill his/her desires and needs in life. According to L.C. Smith, the three primary aspects considered in the selection is the similarity between intelligence, activity level, and sex drive. In addition, upon selecting a partner, one must put into consideration the other factors like belief system differences and expectations. If there is a one-up one-down relationship between the two people, meaning one may have higher sex drive and the other very low, chances are the relationship will not be that successful. The selection process magnifies what is ideal yet realistic in a budding relationship.
More often than not, women search for long-time commitments whereas men prefer good-time relationships. Women seek passionate and romantic men. Primarily, women want men who are financially-stable, responsible, and mature. Men, on the other hand, mostly prefer fun and sweet girlfriends, but once they find that they are ready to settle down, they also seek the same qualities women seek in men; responsibility, maturity, and loyalty.
References
Deborah. (2007). Science of the Sexual Attraction Factor. Life in the Fast Lane. Retrieved June
29, 2009 from http://www.lifeinthefastlane.ca/science-of-the-sexual-attraction-
factor/weird-science
Fix, D. (2009). Histocompatibility. Medical Microbiology Site. Retrieved June 29, 2009 from
http://www.cehs.siu.edu/fix/medmicro/mhc.htm
Smith, L.C. (2009). The Selection Process II. The Writings of Laurence C. Smith, Jr., PHD.
Retrieved June 29, 2009 from http://www.lcsmithphd.com/SelectionII.html
