Final answer:
John is is in the stimulus phase of mate selection in Murstein's theory, where initial attraction is based on physical and other surface-level characteristics. The stimulus phase is followed by the value and role phases as deeper compatibility is explored.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Murstein's stimulus-value-role (SVR) theory, John is in the stimulus phase of mate selection when he notices Katie's attractiveness, her clothing brand, and assesses her ease of approachability. The stimulus phase is the initial stage in Murstein's theory, where physical attraction and other external characteristics serve as the primary reasons for interest in a potential partner.
An example that cites how an animal expends energy in finding, selecting, or winning a mate can be seen in the behavior of the peacock. The male peacock displays its vivid plumage to attract a mate, expending energy in both the growth of its feathers and in the performance of its display to catch the female's attention and demonstrate his suitability as a partner.