She’s an athlete, he’s a bookworm, she likes meeting friends in a nightclub, he prefers long country walks. Have you ever wondered why some people are together who are likely to annoy each other? Are certain personality types simply more attracted to each other? If an obsessively clean person and a disorganised friend become roommates, shouldn’t it result in an incompatible relationship? Not necessarily.

Are certain personality types destined to date?

What gets sparks flying between two people? Is it a case of opposites attracting? This question has boggled the minds of people all the world over since time began. So, if you want to increase your chances of finding the right partner, modern research does hold some answers. Find out which personality you’re most likely to click with, and stick with it.

Research has proven that there are as many as sixteen personality types that can be broken down into two main categories:

• Introverts: People with an introverted personality are generally shy and they have a strong sense of self, which can make them very self-conscious in front of other people. They have a hard time expressing themselves in groups and are normally more comfortable when only a couple of people are around. They can be very passionate but are generally not aggressive.
• Extrovert:Extroverted personalities are generally very comfortable in group situations and often like to be the centre of attention. They are generally self-confident, friendly and outgoing. They are open with their feelings and opinions which can make it easier to get to know them. They prefer to spend time with others, as opposed to being alone.

Because your personality has a great deal to do with how you act, it also has an impact on relationships. Most people exhibit traits from various personality types though, so it isn’t always clear cut.

What are the chances of opposites attracting?

Research has proven that people are attracted to individuals who are different from themselves. Just like metal magnets we are pulled towards a particular romantic personality that is opposite to ours. For example star crossed lovers are inevitably brought together not by their conscious choices, but rather their metaphorical compass, meaning that caregivers are inevitably attracted to care needers and vice versa.

A better match is people whose personalities are complementary rather than a complete contradiction. Sometimes a highly strung person will calm down around someone who is laid back. Likewise, personalities who are too similar can miss out on new experiences.

Complementary personalities run the risk of falling even deeper into their differences though. The quiet person becomes quieter and the talkative person becomes the spokesperson for the relationship. When this happens the relationship will deteriorate. Couples should be careful not to treat their partner’s strengths as a crutch, but as an opportunity to move out of their comfort zones on occasion. In this way they’ll both get the best out of opposites attracting.

So what’s the chemistry behind it?

People are generally attracted to those who are similar to them in terms of education, intelligence or financial status. When people don’t see eye to eye on many levels they simply don’t “get” each other and this can be tough to overcome. People may feel chemistry with someone who treats them in a way that is familiar because it is a dynamic that they know.

Regardless of your personality type, relationships are not always easy, and take a lot of work to be successful. If your personalities are compatible and complementary however, you may be more likely to have a happier healthier relationship.

So now that you know all about opposites attracting, who do you think wins the weight wars, men or women? Find out here.

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.