Characteristic preferences in mate selection among college students : a comparison study spanning the late twentieth century into the early twenty-first century.

Abstract

This study was designed to explore the preferred characteristics of mate selection. Additionally, this study sought to determine preferences by sex, age, and over time. As a matter of geographical convenience and also in recognition of a population ripe for mate selection, students enrolled in a semester-long, family-related, cross-listed undergraduate and graduate course at a Midwestern regional university comprised the subject base. After a verbal solicitation from their professor, with neither positive nor negative consequence for participation, amenable students completed a voluntary survey regarding their preferred characteristics when seeking a mate. Overall and without regard to sex, age, or time, the leading two characteristics were Warm and Affectionate and Good Sense of Humor. A series of independent samples one-way t-tests were performed, which showed several statistically significant differences between the sexes, among the age groups, and across time. This study is quite helpful in understanding which characteristics are most important for those choosing a mate.