Physical Attractiveness and Romantic Relationships: A Review

Lamy L
2020 Psychology and Psychotherapy Research Study  
When asked to state their ideal romantic-partner preferences, men tend to overestimate women's physical attractiveness, whereas women tend to overestimate men's earning prospects [1, 2] . Beyond this gender-related difference, however, both men and women prefer attractive, as compared to non-attractive partners. Attractive individuals are more popular, at least among members of the opposite gender, and they are more successful in dating relationships [3] . In line with these findings, it could
more » ... e expected that feelings of love and affection would be more readily directed towards attractive individuals. But it is striking that this hypothesis was not supported by empirical studies. Among dating partners, neither independent observer, self, nor partner ratings of attractiveness are linked with the level of love an individual receives from his/her partner [4] . For men and women alike, beauty has no advantage in terms of love received, or given. Attractive women are more desired as romantic partners. Attractive men have more cross-gender interactions. Thus, it could be stated that physical attractiveness creates attraction, but it is not enough to create love. Abstract The aim of this article is to present an argument on the physical attractiveness-love linkage. It contributes to the discussion as to whether beauty is enough to inspire love, or it is only associated with preferences for an ideal partner. Next, we summarize the studies demonstrating the effects of beauty illusions on romantic relationships. Finally, we present the evolutionary and socio-cultural interpretations on the meaning of physical attractiveness. Psychol Psychother Res Stud
doi:10.31031/pprs.2020.03.000566 fatcat:wpw4b6wxbjberafwydbltcrame