Why opposites don't actually attract

When ever you see a fitness trainer with a couch potato, or a sensitive person dating someone who seems much more tough minded, it's tempting to throw up your hands and say “Opposites attract.” A new study finds however, that this simply isn't true. Opposites don't attract.

This may seem surprising, but it turns out that even if people appear different, what attracts them is about personal values and how they view the world. Here are just a couple of the things relationship researchers from Wellesley and the University of Kansas found helped form strong partnerships.

Similar Personalities

People who have similar personalities tend to be happier together, according to a 2014 study. Although the more similar the better, it turns out certain aspects of your personality are more important than other types. One of the most important personality types is how agreeable you and your partner are, as well as stability. 

Researchers were surprised to discover that personality doesn't actually have to be the same, as long as the couple perceived each other to be the same.

Similar Backgrounds

While Cinderella marrying the prince makes a wonderful story, couples are often happier if they have come from the same background. When you understand and are empathetic to the trials and tribulations of your childhood, it can make it easier to bond.

Sometimes couples become similar over time

One study even found that long term couples can gradually become more like each other over time. This is why couples often appear to have the same views and opinions on paper, even if they appear to be very different.

While almost 80% of people believe opposite attract, the science says otherwise. Chances are if you find someone you like enough to date, they're more similar to you than you may think.