Struggling to get along with your in-laws? Well apparently there's good reason for it, with a recent study suggesting disapproval from your adopted family ultimately comes down to genetics.
The research, undertaken by the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), shows the reason your boyfriend's mother-in-law doesn't like you probably isn't down to your awkwardness or bad jokes -- but is likely a result of something called the 'Juliet Effect'.
The 'Juliet Effect' is a phenomenon by which parents are opposed to the romantic relationship of their child -- and the researchers theorise that this comes about because the criteria for a good partner varies wildly between parents and their children.
The study shows that while women are looking for traits in a partner that will benefit them, parents and siblings are subconsciously more concerned with how that partner "can provide benefits for the whole family".
The report suggests that in your family's eyes, the ideal partner is one who won't "drain resources from you".
NTNU associate professor Robert Biegler says the traits that women want in a partner can be quite different to what they look for in their sister's partner.
"The qualities of faithfulness, loyalty, honesty, trustworthiness and reliability score highest when women are asked who would make an ideal partner," he said.
However, Prof Biegler says empathy, understanding and helpfulness are seen as more important for their sister's spouse -- while the ability to provide sexual satisfaction, humour and sincerity is overlooked and instead prioritised for their own partners.
Newshub.
