Attractiveness and relationship longevity: Beauty is not what it is cracked up to be
- Christine Ma-Kellams, Kennedy School, Harvard University; Department of Psychology, University of La Verne; Department of Psychology, Harvard University; Margaret C. Wang, Department of Psychology, Harvard University; School of Education and Counseling Psychology, Santa Clara University; Hannah Cardiel, Department of Psychology, Harvard University.
Abstract
Across four studies, we examined the relational repercussions of physical attractiveness (PA). Study 1 (n = 238) found that those rated as more attractive in high school yearbooks were married for shorter durations and more likely to divorce. Study 2 (n = 130) replicated these effects using a different sample (high-profile celebrities). Study 3 (n = 134) examined the link between PA and the derogation of attractive alternatives, a relationship maintenance strategy. Study 4 (n = 156) experimentally manipulated perceived PA and examined its relation with both derogation of attractive alternatives and current relationship satisfaction. PA predicted likelihood of relationship dissolution and decreased derogation of attractive alternatives. Furthermore, PA predicted greater vulnerability to relationship threats—in this case, relationship alternatives—resulting from poor relationship satisfaction.