Applied study of affinities for personal attributes using an epidemiological model

Relationship choices are critical to one’s psychological and physical well-being. Yet prior investigations of factors that influence these choices have been determinedly nonutilitarian. Many researchers have assessed the attractiveness of specific personal attributes, the benefits of having attractive or unattractive characteristics, and the influence of evolutionary pressures on the attractiveness of certain qualities. However, attributes have not been investigated for their effect on those who have an affinity for them in today’s society. We believe that research should be directed toward identifying affinities that are normative but maladaptive because they decrease the likelihood of forming good relationships. This research would parallel epidemiological studies of risk factors for health problems and would yield information that could be used to improve relationship choices.