Social psychologists have studied affiliation and interpersonal attraction, mate selection, and relationship satisfaction. Not surprisingly, research indicates that males and females think differently about relationships.

Some of these differences include comfort with relationship intimacy and physical contact, perceptions of attractiveness, reasons for mate selection, and the role of emotion within relationships (Crisp & Turner, 2010).

For this Discussion, review the Learning Resources and research two articles related to either gender and affiliation or gender and attraction. Consider how gender may relate to affiliation and attraction and whether or not you agree with the articles you selected.

Post by Day 4 a brief explanation of how gender might affect two of the following: friendship, attraction, entering a relationship, or relationship satisfaction. Then explain whether you agree or disagree with the research you selected regarding gender and relationships and why.

Be specific and use the current literature to support your response.

Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the Learning Resources.

Read a selection of your colleagues' postings.

Respond at least one of your colleagues' postings in one or more of the following ways:

Ask a probing question.

Share an insight from having read your colleague's posting.

Offer and support an opinion.

Validate an idea with your own experience.

Make a suggestion.

Expand on your colleague's posting.

Return to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to your initial posting. Note what you have learned and/or any insights you have gained as a result of the comments your colleagues made.