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Chemistry and the Physical Factor in Attraction

To find the basis of genuine attraction, one has to look at what is operating between two people on any given day; what I would call the PIE factors - the combination of physical, intellectual and emotional elements which influence every routine interaction. The greater the force of the PIE factors in the social intercourse we share with someone, whether at school, home, work or leisure, the more we will be positively disposed towards them. If the PIE triangle is weak, the interaction is unlikely to turn into a friendship and will always remain on a platonic, business or needs must' basis. Each element in this attraction triangle operates as a different priority at the various stages in our lives. The physical part of it also subdivides into a secondary set of attraction attributes which include proximity (nearness) and situation.

So, the couple has to bond physically, intellectually and emotionally before they can connect to that essential 'chemistry' everyone seeks and desires, one that emphasises similarity of approach, a congruence of perspectives and reciprocity of purpose. The longest relationships are thus based on having the most powerful combination of these PIE factors. Where more than one PIE element is absent, that's a brief relationship in the making!

Physical attraction is a key element in the attraction triangle, especially for females. Ours being a society fixated on appearance, physical attractiveness is a moderately good predictor of how often a female dates because men value this kind of attractiveness more than women (Feingold 1990/91). Not surprisingly, 90 per cent of cosmetic surgery patients are women! Physical attractiveness not only helps to create a positive first impression, it is also associated with fertility and health in other words, the selection of the best people to ensure ongoing reproduction of our species. A healthy-looking person with good complexion, smiling eyes and a seemingly optimistic mental state is considered to be greatly attractive. Those who remain in good health are more likely to conceive healthy, well-balanced children and are perceived to be able to care more adequately for them before any complications arise.

This physical first impression becomes important both in meeting a potential dating partner and in a job interview. Studies which have subjects rate the attractiveness of people in yearbooks, or the public eye, find that the more attractive people tend to have higher-status jobs, to make more money and are more likely to describe themselves as being happy (Umberson & Hughes 1987).

Liking someone can also influence their attractiveness ratings. For instance, the more in-love a woman is with a man, the more attractive she rates him. Additionally, the more in-love people are, the less attractive they find other people of the opposite sex to be (Johnson & Rusbult 1989). Furthermore, in the interpersonal marketplace, there is a tendency for beautiful women to be paired with wealthy men.

Learn more about this author, Elaine Sihera.
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