What is a healthy marriage?

There are at least two characteristics that all healthy marriages have in common. First, they are mutually enriching and, second, both spouses have a deep respect for each other. 

It is a mutually satisfying relationship that is beneficial to the husband, wife and children (if present).

It is a relationship that is committed to ongoing growth, the use of effective communication skills and the use of successful conflict management skills.

Click under a topic of choice under the resource tab to learn more about healthy communication patterns and problem solving tips.

Benefits of a healthy marriage

For children & youth

o  More likely to attend college

o  More likely to succeed academically

o  Physically & emotionally healthier

o  Less likely to attempt or commit suicide

o  Demonstrate fewer behavioral problems in school

o  Less likely to be a victim of physical or sexual abuse

o  Less likely to abuse drugs or alcohol

o  Less likely to commit delinquent behaviors

o  Have a better relationship with their mothers and fathers

o  Decrease their chances of divorcing when they get married

o  Less likely to become pregnant as a teenager or impregnate someone

o  Less likely to be sexually active as teenagers

o  Less likely to contract STD's

o  Less likely to be raised in poverty

 

For women

o  More satisfying relationship

o  Physically & emotionally healthier

o  Wealthier

o  Less likely to be victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or other violent crimes

o  Less likely to attempt or commit suicide Decrease risk of drug and alcohol abuse

o  Less likely to contract STD's

o  Less likely to remain or end up in poverty

o  Have better relationships with their children

For men

o  Live longer

o  Physically & emotionally healthier

o  Wealthier

o  Increase in the stability of employment

o  Higher wages

o  Decrease risk of drug and alcohol abuse

o  Have better relationships with their children

o  More satisfying sexual relationship

o  Less likely to commit violent crimes

o  Less likely to contract STD's Less likely to attempt or commit suicide

For  communities

o  Higher rates of physically & emotionally healthy citizens

o  Higher rates of educated citizens

o  Lower domestic violence rates

o  Lower crime statistics & juvenile delinquency

o  Lower teenage pregnancy rates

o  Higher rates of home ownership

o  Lower rates of migration Higher property values

o  Decreased need for social services  

 

Source: Why Marriage Matters, Second Edition: Twenty-Six Conclusions from the Social Sciences. Institute for American Values (2005). Call us at 1-877-41-BRIDGE for a free copy of this resource