ABSTRACT
Interpersonal attraction is a positive attitude held by one person toward another person. It is the basis for the development, maintenance, and dissolution of close personal relationships. This chapter illustrates the importance of similarity in the early stages of a relationship. It is based on or assumes face-to-face interaction. The chapter discovers that Dan and Mia had similar attitudes and interests, and shared pleasant experiences, such as doing well on an examination, going to a movie, and later, going to a party. It summarizes how does loving differ from liking? Much of the research in social psychology on attraction or liking. The chapter discusses the importance of outcomes in establishing and maintaining relationships. It describes the increasing self-disclosure and interdependence that accompanies the development of romantic relationships; people who report that interdependence developed more rapidly and more broadly and who feel a strong sense of "we-ness" in their relationship are less likely to report loneliness.
