How different between 'attraction' and 'attractiveness?

Thoughts on the Theory of Attraction...?

• I remember when I was in undergrad we studied the Theory of Attraction. I know this is going to make me sound shallow but oh well. One tenet of the theory is that men are physically attracted to women that they feel are their "equal." Meaning...most couples are generally "equal" in level of attractiveness. I know that this doesn't apply to EVERYONE (because we all have examples of dorky men with models). But as I look at my own relationships and all relationships of people I know...it seems to be very accurate. There are a few odd ones though. Men that are very attractive by anyone's standards but are with women that are clearly NOT attractive. Since men are more "visual" and rank physical attractiveness higher than women...what is the deal? You are probably thinking maybe I shouldn't try to base relationships on psychological theories? I just want to know what I am missing? Yes love is a factor...but INITIALLY it isn't. It is physical attractiveness and then grows from that

• Answer:

  gotcha! i *think* you are talking about from a male perspective? your right alot of factors contribute to a man being attracted to a female. if you are speaking ONLY about physical attractiveness then maybe a "hot" guy is with an "ugly" girl because he finds himself ugly? its largely about confidence level. maybe initially he was just attracted to the ugly girl and isn't shallow. also levels of attractiveness can be determined by personal likes and dislikes. we all don't like the same people. but clearly there are some universals in play which is why in a "controlled" environment many people find one person to be attractive because they possess certain facial structures, stature, etc. got me. good question though.