A Level Psychology OCR Test 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The concept that refers to the tendency to be drawn to people of similar intelligence, as identified by Van Leeuwen et al., is known as phenotypic assortment. This term describes how individuals often group or form relationships with others who share similar traits or characteristics, including intelligence. This tendency can be attributed to shared interests, communication styles, or personal values, which are often influenced by one's level of intelligence.

Phenotypic assortment emphasizes the idea that people are more likely to associate with others who exhibit comparable observable traits, leading to social patterns that reinforce these similarities. The implications of this concept can be seen in various social settings, including friendships, romantic relationships, and professional networks, highlighting the influence of cognitive factors in social dynamics.