Machine learning meets partner matching: Predicting the future relationship quality based on personality traits.
Inga Großmann1, André Hottung2, Artus Krohn-Grimberghe3
1HMKW Hochschule für Medien, Kommunikation und Wirtschaft, University of Applied Science, Berlin, Germany.
Plos One
|March 22, 2019
Summary
Machine learning can predict relationship quality using personality traits, explaining 37% of variance. Individual personality is the primary predictor, more so than partner similarity.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Computational Social Science
- Artificial Intelligence
Background:
- Understanding relationship dynamics is crucial for well-being.
- Predicting relationship longevity and satisfaction remains a complex challenge.
- The role of individual personality traits in relationship outcomes requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the extent to which machine learning can predict relationship outcomes based on partner personality traits.
- To analyze the predictive power of individual personality versus partner effects on relationship quality.
- To identify which personality aspects are most influential in relationship success.
Main Methods:
- Utilized linear regression models with 10x10-fold cross-validation for reproducibility.
- Collected personality trait data from 192 partners.
- Predicted relationship satisfaction, conflicts, and separation intents four years post-questionnaire.
Main Results:
- Machine learning models improved the prediction of relationship quality, explaining 37% of the variance.
- Perceived relationship quality was predominantly dependent on an individual's own personality traits (actor effects).
- Relationship-related personality traits were stronger predictors than general personality traits; partner and similarity effects did not add significant predictive value beyond actor effects.
Conclusions:
- Machine learning offers a viable approach to enhance the prediction of relationship quality.
- Individual personality traits are the most significant factor in determining relationship outcomes.
- Future research should focus on relationship-specific personality dimensions for improved predictive accuracy.
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