Despite what you might have heard opposites don t usually attract in fact people tend to be attracted to those who resemble them or their parents

Despite what you might have heard, opposites don’t usually attract.

You may have grown up with the notion that opposites attract when it comes to romantic relationships. The belief that we are drawn to people who are completely different from us is a common misconception perpetuated by popular culture. However, recent research in psychology and social science suggests otherwise.

Contrary to popular belief, people tend to be attracted to those who resemble them or their parents. This phenomenon is known as “homogamy.” Homogamy refers to the tendency of individuals to marry or form partnerships with others who have similar characteristics, such as age, education level, religious beliefs, and even physical appearance.

One of the main factors influencing attraction is similarity. Psychologists have found that we are more likely to be attracted to people who share our interests, values, and attitudes. When we meet someone who thinks and behaves like us, it creates a sense of familiarity and comfort. This similarity can act as a strong foundation for a relationship, as it promotes understanding and compatibility.

Another important aspect that influences attraction is our upbringing and parental influence. Research has shown that individuals often seek partners who resemble their parents, both physically and personality-wise. This phenomenon is known as the “imprinting model.” According to this model, we are attracted to people who remind us of our primary caregivers. The logic behind this is that we feel safe and familiar with the characteristics we have been exposed to since childhood.

So where does the notion of opposites attracting come from? While there may be exceptions to every rule, it is important to note that initial attraction and long-term compatibility are two different things. At the initial stages, people might be drawn to individuals who possess qualities they feel they lack. These differences can create excitement and novelty in the early phases of a relationship. However, as time goes on, these differences can also lead to conflicts and challenges.

While cultural differences and diverse perspectives can be enriching, it is often the similarities that help relationships to thrive. Sharing common interests, values, and goals can foster a deep sense of connection and understanding between partners.

In conclusion, despite the common belief that opposites attract, research indicates that people are generally attracted to those who resemble them or their parents. Similarity in interests, values, and upbringing plays a significant role in determining attraction and long-term compatibility. So when it comes to forming lasting relationships, it seems that “birds of a feather really do flock together.”

Source: Psychology Today