Science
Science calls soulmate myth into question with multiple studies
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Science calls soulmate myth into question with multiple studies
A BBC feature examines research on attraction, trauma bonds, and relationship satisfaction, challenging the idea of a single perfect match.
- A 1993 study by Donald Dutton and Susan Painter found that trauma bonds form when partners alternate between kindness and abuse.
- A series of studies in the late 1990s led by C. Raymond Knee distinguished between destiny beliefs and growth beliefs in relationships.
- Economist Dr Greg Leo published computer simulations identifying that many compatible partners exist, not just one soulmate.
- Sociologist Jacqui Gabb's 2015 Enduring Love project reported that small everyday gestures matter more for relationship satisfaction than grand romantic acts.
Topicsnatural selectiondestiny vs growth beliefsrelationship satisfactionneural mechanismsattractionlittle acts of kindnessempathy scaletrauma bondhealthy relationshipslie detection devicessocial relationshipsevolution by robert wrightsoulmateNeuroscience Legal Systemsuccessful relationshipssexual selectionbasic rules of relationshipsEmotional Intelligence Relationships
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