Myths about Love and Marriage

WHICH ONES ARE TRUE?

There is a marriage made in heaven, with each person having one ideal partner on earth.
FALSE: This is not supported by research.

People will marry someone just like Mom or Dad.
TRUE: Research indicates the parental image theory may be a factor in mate selection.

Opposites attract.
FALSE: How often do we look at a couple with dissimilar traits, abilities, and interests and wonder how they ever got together? Though we often hear about this 'complementary needs' theory, there is little support for it.

Likes attract.
TRUE: People with similar values often appeal to each other. We like to be supported.

You never get something for nothing.
TRUE: This 'social exchange' theory suggests that mate selection is really barter at a subconscious level. I'll share my social status, physical attributes and business acumen with you if you commit your attention to me and share your personality attributes and professional status.

You get what you expect.
TRUE: This suggests that we look for a partner who fits our expectations of how life-roles should be performed.

Modern technology can help you find your "perfect" mate.
MAYBE: The interesting thing that the computer has allowed to do through dating services is articulate our best traits -- if we're being honest. It has allowed you to refine the search a little bit. We probably learn more about each other from that system than some others. Be careful, of course- most of us tend to lie.