Indirect Parental Influence on Mate Choice: A Test of the Psychoanalytic Theory

Abstract

Indirect parental influence on mate choice was ascertained using a recent population of brides and grooms of mixed parentage in Hawaii. With respect to nativity of parents, the influence of mothers on mate selection is greater than the influence of fathers. Simultaneously, mothers' influence on sons is greater than on daughters, and fathers' influence on daughters is greater than on sons. The data seemed to support the psychoanalytic theory of mate selection for both sexes. Related literature is interpreted in the light of these findings, and suggestions for further research are offered.