Expert Advice Q&A: Can Opposites Make a Marriage Work?
Dear Dr. Betty, My husband and I have done our own thing for many years. I like the outdoors and he likes the city life. We have two kids, and he works out of town all week. I feel a void, because we don’t feel the same way about life. Can a relationship between two opposites be fulfilling and last? –L. Dear L., “Opposites attract” or “Like attracts like . . . ” Which of these sayings reflects the truth about relationships? Actually . . . they both do! We’re attracted to people who represent our ideal selves, who show strength when we feel weak. We also are attracted to people who share our tastes and temperaments. Similarities make relationships easier. In fact, differences can, over time, become annoying or pose major problems. You and your husband could be avoiding each other. Doing your own thing for so many years may have provided you with a comfort level and helped you both avoid true intimacy. Now you want to get close, but does he? What was your initial attraction to your husb
