An old dating theory is gaining traction on social media and experts have explained how it can impact your relationship.
We all know how hard maintaining a healthy and happy relationship can be as we navigate the trials and tribulations of life - especially in this day and age - but it seems there's a theory we need to be aware of.
The theory is based on the premise that 'women are never happy in their relationships and marriages if they end up chasing their man'.
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Self-proclaimed 'mindset coach' Anna Kristina has taken to TikTok to explain further what this is all about.
Named as ‘black cat and golden retriever’ theory, it suggests that in order for a relationship to last, both the man and woman will need to have different qualities.
'Black cat and golden retriever' theory explained
Anna claims that women are more like black cats who are said to be 'mysterious' and 'aloof'.
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And men, who are chasing the black cats, need to be 'loyal' and energetic in return - just like a golden retriever.
"The best dynamic in a relationship if you want it to last is the one where she’s the mysterious femme fatal black cat and he’s the loyal golden retriever," Kristina said in one of her videos.
“It’s the woman who needs to maintain the mystery, the independence, she serves herself first because the black cat comes and goes as she pleases.
“This pleases the golden retriever because he sits on the edge of his seat still being intrigued by the black cat, always being interested and entertained because he feels like he never has a hold of her.”
The one sign of the theory that suggests a relationship could end
Anna then warned that if these roles are reversed, then there will be 'no sexual attraction'.
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"It becomes a relationship of convenience and the sex with drive down resulting in him pulling away,” she explained.
“This dynamic never works.”
Criticism of the theory
However, Chantelle Otten, Bumble’s resident sexologist, told news.au that people should take the theory with a grain of salt.
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“While using these kinds of comparisons can be a fun way to talk about relationships, it’s pretty important to take a step back and think about these tropes more deeply,” she said.
“This whole concept oversimplifies the complex mix of personalities and dynamics that make up real relationships. After all, people are more diverse in their behaviours and feelings than just being one thing or another.
“What makes a relationship work are healthy practices like mutual respect, good communication, and really understanding each other, not just fitting into certain roles because of gender.”
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Melbourne psychologist Carly Dober also criticised the theory, adding: “It is very heteronormative, and it does not leave space for queer relationships or different kind of relationship configurations.
“It also further entrenches that most straight males are friendly and outgoing while women are more reserved and difficult to please.
“Comparing women to cats is also another example of sexism.”
Featured Image Credit: Getty Stock ImagesTopics: Sex and Relationships, TikTok