Is There Any Truth to “Opposites Attract”?

Usually, the idiom is repeated as a reaction to an existing couple that seems mismatched for any number of reasons—food preferences, vacation styles, even astrological signs. But sometimes, it seems, the pendulum can swing too far in the other direction, and serve as the sole reason for cutting things off. Like when a friend complains about having nothing in common with someone they went out with on Zoom or IRL , and cites that lack of mutual interests as the reason for it never being able to work.

They can vary from person to person, but some common examples may include a stance on having kids, religious beliefs, or wanting to travel versus putting down roots. In contrast, wants , Elson and Wright say, are more of a bonus. The results support that sharing intimate thoughts and feelings and feeling appreciated by a partner are just as important for relationship success as maintaining autonomy by having separate interests and being able to make decisions without worrying about the partner being upset.

Do Opposites Attract? eharmony Staff. December 12, We’ve all heard it over and over again. “If you want to find a great relationship, look for an opposite.

What is it about our polar opposites that can be so irresistibly attractive? Why does it seem so often the laid-back, mellow guy goes for the loud, extroverted social butterfly? Right or wrong, some of us cannot seem to help ourselves! Have you always lacked that risk-taking, adventurous gene? The one that would propel you to go sky diving or explore the Alaskan wilderness?

And he might be the one to appreciate your steady, dependable side. Entertainment news sites are also obsessed with seemingly mis-matched couples like Australian country singer Keith Urban and unflappable, mysterious Nicole Kidman. Kidman and Urban have been married since practically a lifetime in Hollywood circles. What about us regular joes? In non-Hollywood life, there are plenty more examples of opposites attracting.