What is the main determinant of why individuals are attracted to each other according to assortative mating?

Assortative mating refers to the phenomenon where individuals tend to partner with others who have similar characteristics, values, and interests. The concept emphasizes that people are more likely to form relationships with those who share common traits, particularly in terms of interests and values. This shared foundation fosters compatibility and enhances relationship satisfaction over time, as partners often understand each other better and share life goals.

While physical appearance, social connections, and economic stability can certainly play significant roles in attraction and relationship formation, assortative mating specifically highlights the importance of commonalities in interests and values. These shared aspects lead to stronger emotional bonds and a deeper sense of connection between partners, which is why option focusing on common interests and values is considered the main determinant in this context.