Exploring the Impact of Mate Value & Desire for Commitment on Changing Mate Preferences in Indian Youth

Abstract

Mate preferences is an uncharted area in India with few studies (such as Prakash & Singh, 2014) laying rudimentary foundations about characteristics that individuals prefer in potential partners. The impact of moderator variables such as desire for commitment in relationships & mate value have been predominantly studied in WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich & Democratic) cultures alone. This paper aimed to 1) explore underlying dimensions of mate preferences within an Indian sample 2) identify gender differences in mate preferences, 3) identify the impact of desire for commitment on mate preferences and 4) study the moderating effects of mate value and desire for commitment on mate preferences. From responses of 200 Indian participants from Bangalore urban, 5 underlying dimensions (Physical Attractiveness & Compatibility, Dependability & Emotional Warmth, Social Status & Resources, Sociability, Ambitiousness) were identified through exploratory factor analysis. Females were found to prefer Social Status & Resources and Ambitiousness characteristics more than men. While desire for commitment alone had no impact on mate preferences, along with mate value as a moderator it was found to significantly affect preferences. The paper further discusses implications of findings in a larger cultural context and proposes research to untangle the complex moderating effect of mate value on mate preferences.