{"id":74680,"date":"2022-02-07T10:45:31","date_gmt":"2022-02-07T10:45:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/?p=74680"},"modified":"2026-03-13T11:02:15","modified_gmt":"2026-03-13T11:02:15","slug":"symmetrical-or-complementary-relationship","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/symmetrical-or-complementary-relationship\/","title":{"rendered":"Is Your Relationship Symmetrical or Complementary?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

\"Couple<\/p>\n

Every individual has an idea of the <\/span>kind of relationship<\/span><\/a> they want. Hence, when you meet someone who shares the same ideologies with you, or someone who completes your deficits, you will be happy to enter into a relationship with them.<\/span><\/p>\n

This is what symmetrical and complementary relationships are all about. Both types of relationships have distinguishing features that show us the beauty of human diversity. After reading this piece, you will know the difference between symmetrical and complementary relationships, and you will be able to tell your preference.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/span>Difference between symmetrical and complementary relationships<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

\"Relationship<\/p>\n

Symmetrical and complementary relationships give a good picture of the primary forms of a union between two partners. In a symmetrical relationship, both partners put equal effort into making the relationship work. They would be jointly involved in running the relationship, as no one would be left out.<\/span><\/p>\n

In a complementary relationship, the responsibilities are divided between the partners based on their strengths, capacities, and interests. Sometimes, symmetrical and complementary relationships might not be fully inclusive when looking at them individually.<\/span><\/p>\n

To know more about <\/span>Symmetrical and complementary relationships<\/span>, read this article by Marie Hartwell Walker<\/a>. It helps you know the differences from a medically evaluated standpoint. <\/span><\/p>\n

<\/span>What is the meaning of a symmetrical relationship?<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

\"Happy<\/p>\n

A symmetrical relationship is becoming more popular nowadays. To answer the question of what is a symmetrical relationship, this is a <\/span>type of relationship<\/span><\/a> where both partners contribute equally to a different aspect of their union. Hence, their roles would be similar, coming from two different or the same standpoints. This is one difference between symmetrical and complementary relationships.<\/span><\/p>\n

People in a symmetrical relationship must have come to an understanding before they entered the union that they would perform similar roles. None of them would be left out when it comes to running the affairs of the relationship. If they get married, it would equally be the same thing.<\/span><\/p>\n

They can decide to be joint-breadwinners, performing other essential roles like home care, taking care of the child, etc. One of the significant reasons symmetrical relationships are becoming more popular is because of the way the world is now structured.<\/span><\/p>\n

Many women are becoming more involved in running organizations and businesses, and some schools of thought believe it is wrong to saddle her with the traditional home duties compulsorily.<\/span><\/p>\n

Therefore, in <\/span>heterosexual relationships<\/span><\/a> where a man and woman are involved, they will share the division of housework. This would help both of them face their career squarely without letting the home suffer.<\/span><\/p>\n

Usually, people in <\/span>symmetrical relationships<\/span> are attracted to each other because of their similarities. This research study by Joel Wade<\/a> seeks to explain why it is so. The study is titled The Relationships between Symmetry and Attractiveness and Mating Relevant Decisions and Behavior.<\/span><\/p>\n

Do you want to know if your relationship partner is the right person for you, then check this video:<\/span><\/p>\n