It has probably never been easier to find a partner who is compatible with you — at least in theory. Internet dating platforms feed algorithms with information about those seeking a relationship in order to find the best match for them. But can this predictability be applied to a relationship? Is it possible to foresee from the start whether it will last? In psychology, there are currently two scientific models, which describe the course of a relationship in different ways, explains Finn.
One posits that all couples are initially more or less equally happy. The second model assumes that the two individuals in a couple start at different levels of happiness.
They generally maintain these levels, but a more negative initial situation increases the likelihood of failure. In addition, happiness declines in both groups.
However, in those who later separate, this happens significantly faster, meaning that a person who starts off unhappy becomes increasingly unhappy. Therefore, the beginning of a relationship can reveal something about how it will progress. The researchers in Jena determined satisfaction by, for example, asking couples to what extent they considered that their needs were being met.
In general, people who have similar needs, for example a need for closeness, but who also want to be able to continue pursuing their own interests, usually stay together longest.
