Mating

Although many theories have been generated about mate selection, they can be grouped under four primary categories: "psychodynamic theories, needs theories, exchange theories, and developmental process theories" ("Cohabitation and Mate Selection"). In the following section, the theories under each of the categories will be examined individually.

The psychodynamic perspective of mate selection is represented by the parent image theory and the ideal mate theory. The parent image theory states that men are likely to select mates who are similar to their mothers, while women tend to choose mates who resemble their fathers ("Cohabitation and Mate Selection"). This theory is derived from Freud's psychoanalytic description of love that is based on an individual's sexua

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ucational hierarchy. Education homogamy is also strong in many countries as education serves as the primary factor in separating college graduates from non-college graduates (cited in Kalmijn 406-8). The finding of the Filter theory of mate selection with its concepts of homogamy and compatibility clearly contradicts prevalent beliefs about mate selection, which are supported by needs theories and exchange theories. Both the needs theories and exchange theories are based on their emphasis on the differences between the partners. In the interviews of the six couples, the experience of one couple (Kathy Chin and Stephane Weber) and that of the other couple (Calvin and Serline Goh) were explained by the complementary needs theory and the traditional exchange theory respectively. The findings of these two interviews will now be discussed within the context of the existing literature. Contrary to the other four couples who emphasized their similarities with one another, Kathy and Stephane highlighted their differences from one another. However, even though they experienced tremendous conflicts at the beginning of their relationships due to their differences, they have come to recognize that they complement each other. In conf
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Approximate Word count = 3719
Approximate Pages = 15 (250 words per page)

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