Who's Bernard Murstein? What's a Filter Theory?

Dear Karlie,

What is Murstein's filter theory? How does it relate to mate selection?

Sincerely,

Questioner.

Dear Questioner,

Bernard Murstein came up with a sociological theory concerning dating and mate selection called the filter theory. Murstein uses the analogy of "sifting" to suggest that individuals pass their dates through a series of "filters" to cut out marriage partners believed to be unacceptable. The process of filtering narrows down individuals until there is only one acceptable partner remaining. These filters involve:

 1.Field of Eligibles- Involves possible options. Looks at who is out there within the general population.

 2.Propinquity Filter- Provides an available group to choose from. Who happens to be close to us in  proximity.

 3.Attraction Filter- Judgement based on appearance and individual characteristics.

 4.Homogamy Filter- How similar age, race, education, socio-economic class, religion are to the
 individual.

 5.Compatibility Filter- Involves attitudes, values, needs, habits, and roles. Similarities to these qualities  are judged.

 6.Trial Filter- Commitment. Tests compatibility of all previous filters.

 7.Decision Filter- Final decision is made here to see if individual is the right choice.

Sincerely,

Karlie.