Why did I fall for him? : a qualitative study of the perceived reasons for female partner choice

Abstract

The aim of this research is to understand women's preferences in the choice of their mate. Four women were interviewed: two were still in a successful partnership while the other two were separated from their previous partner. The approach of thematic analysis was used to acquire an understanding of their choice of mate. Common themes were extracted from the data. Results showed how one's perception of another individual plays a crucial role in the attraction process. Findings in the data seem to indicate that participants expressed some of their conscious awareness about what attracts them to certain type of men. Although, certain unconscious processes still play a part in their attraction. These findings appear to indicate that being attracted to a particular type of man involves: assessing partners' qualities together with their own particular needs. Moreover, participants pointed out that their childhood experience seems to have affected their perception and attraction towards a particular type of man.