Is Compatibility Important in Marriage?

By David M Tyler, PhD

Introduction: A Popular but Misleading Idea

Modern marriage advice often centers on the idea of compatibility. People are told to look for someone who shares their interests, personality type, education, background, or emotional temperament. The assumption is simple: if two people are naturally compatible, the marriage will be harmonious.

But Scripture paints a very different picture.

While studies may show that people of similar economic, social, or educational backgrounds tend to get along more easily,