According to psychological research on theories of emotion and interpersonal attraction, what does evidence suggest about the concept of 'opposites attract' in romantic relationships?

• A. There is no scientific evidence regarding attraction based on similarity or difference in romantic relationships.
• B. Research indicates that attraction is entirely random and not influenced by similarity or difference.
• C. Research generally shows that people are more likely to be attracted to others who share similar attitudes, values, and personality traits rather than those who are opposite.
• D. Studies consistently find that opposites in personality and values are more likely to form long-lasting romantic relationships.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of 'opposites attract' in the context of romantic relationships, which suggests that people are drawn to partners who have different traits or characteristics from themselves.
2. Review psychological research on interpersonal attraction, focusing on studies that examine the role of similarity versus difference in attitudes, values, and personality traits between partners.
3. Note that empirical evidence from these studies generally supports the idea that similarity, rather than difference, plays a stronger role in attraction and relationship satisfaction.
4. Recognize that similarity in key areas such as values, beliefs, and personality traits tends to predict greater attraction and more stable, long-lasting relationships.
5. Conclude that the popular notion of 'opposites attract' is not strongly supported by scientific research, which instead highlights the importance of similarity in successful romantic relationships.