Mate Selection Factors in Computer Matched Marriages

With the cooperation of a computer matching agency, mate selection factors were studied in a matched, subsequently married group and a comparison group of computer matched, but not married couples. No differences were found on a broad range of demographic variables or in expressed preferences for partner characteristics. A homogamy hypothesis was supported for a number of personality traits and complementarity on only one trait. In this population, conscious and overt motivation to marry appears to play an important role in many marriages, but in complex relationships with other factors.