Most previous partner selection studies have addressed partner preferences. However, due to various social constraints, the actual choice of a given preference does not always necessarily reflect. According to the additive model , the individual chooses the partner who has the most preferred characteristics in the sum, compared to the potential partner who has fewer. In contrast, according to the model threshold ( threshold model), the individual has set thresholds for each characteristic, and if the potential partner does not reach this threshold, the relationship will not be established.The main goal of the proposed project is to compare these two models and their applicability.We will also test on the basis of which decisions are made as to whether or not a relationship will be established.The first study is planned as an experiment in which, by manipulating vignettes, we will monitor the attractiveness of potential partners based on one (but not the other) of the above models.In the second study, we will use longitudinal design to test the partner preferences of single individuals.These preferences will then be compared with the characteristics of real partners, which will allow us to test the applicability of the models described above.
Preliminary scope of work in English
The majority of previous studies on mate choice focused on mate preferences. However, due to various social constrains they might not always be translated into the actual mate choice. Traditionally, the mate decisions are expected to follow so called additive model which expects that the potential partner with the highest sum of the preferred characteristics will be chosen over the one with the lower overall score. In contrast, the threshold model predicts that individuals have a certain threshold for each characteristic and they reject a potential partner not reaching this threshold.The main goal of the proposed project is to compare these two models and test their applicability. Moreover, we aim to examine how relationship related decisions are made (i.e., going on a first date, starting a new relationship). First planned study is an experiment performed with manipulated vignettes to check the desirability of potential partners who are considered as appealing by one of the models but not by the other. The second study has a longitudinal design and will obtain partner preferences from single participants. The preferences will be later compared with the characteristics of the actual partners so that we can test the two models' applicability.
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