Anyone who has been married for any period of time can attest to the fact that marriage is hard work. In every marriage, there are ups and downs, highs and lows, and everything in between. So, what is it that makes a marriage last? Why is it that some marriages fall apart while other marriages last until death? While theories abound, there can be no doubt that some factors play a more important role than others do in determining the statistical likelihood of marital success and happiness. One of the most important factors is the compatibility of the couple's personalities. .
This theory is best explained by Taylor Hartman, PhD in his book The Color Code. This book presents four basic types of personalities, all of which are categorized by their representing colors. These are blue, red, white and yellow. Each personality type is driven by a different core motive and will react uniquely with other types. While success is possible with all combinations, the degree of difficulty in maintaining a happy relationship in which both partners" needs are met differs with each combination. .
"Blues" have a strong need for intimacy and emotion in a relationship. They excel at commitments and are very loyal. "Reds" are also good with commitments, however, they often lack the "emotion" needed by blues. Reds are seen by others as very "cold" individuals and are very bossy and demanding. "Whites" are noted for their strong need for "peace" in their interpersonal relationships. The are fairly good with commitment, but are horrible in dealing with confrontation and "difficult" people. "Yellows" have a strong need for fun, freedom and other people. They are very needy, but are very good at intimacy. They are very rarely committed individuals, and often are likened to "butterflies," rarely lasting very long in jobs or relationships. .
Combinations such as blue/red, or blue/yellow have a very difficult time sustaining happy relationships with each other as their needs are polar opposites.