Ideal Partner Characteristics in the 21st Century

Abstract

Abstract This chapter reviews literature on mate preferences and interpersonal attraction since 2000, comparing historical and current preferences. Attraction and romance have been affected to some degree by greater egalitarianism between the sexes over time. Meanwhile, many preferences remain consistent, including those that may seem egotistical or shallow, such as people’s desire for physical beauty, resources/status, and similarity to oneself. Preferred characteristics in mates range from potentially problematic features (e.g., risk-taking and dark triad traits) to beneficial qualities (e.g., intelligence, altruism, sense of humor). These preferences often depend on one’s environment, physical health, economic situation, age, and gender. The chapter argues that attraction preferences that are based on social norms shift more rapidly than those rooted in evolutionary processes. Preferences of non-heterosexual people are also considered, and future directions pertaining to nontraditional relationship types and the COVID-19 pandemic are discussed.