We can make predictions about relationships - but is this necessary?

'Predictions as to the longevity of a relationship are definitely possible,' says Dr Christine Finn from the University of Jena. In the long-term study 'pairfam', she held regular interviews over seven years with nearly 2,000 couples, 16 per cent of which broke up during this period. 'Right at the outset of a relationship, one can find typical features - that is to say certain prediction variables - that provide information on whether or not the relationship will be long-lasting.'