Does physical appearance actually matter in relationships long term?

Question

My friend says looks fade and character is what matters in a long-term relationship. But another friend says physical attraction is essential and cannot be faked. Who is right? How much does physical appearance actually matter once you are in a committed relationship?

william_brown · Accepted Answer

Initial attraction matters for getting things started but research consistently shows it becomes less important over time as emotional intimacy deepens. People in long relationships often describe their partner as more attractive than when they met.

jack_young · Answer

Some baseline physical attraction is needed to sustain a romantic relationship. But the threshold is much lower than dating culture suggests. Kindness, humor, and deep knowing become far more powerful attractors than looks over years.

Does physical appearance actually matter in relationships long term?

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Does physical appearance actually matter in relationships long term?

2 answers Most votes Newest Oldest

Write an Answer

2 answers
Most votes Newest Oldest