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 Healthy Marriages

FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH » More likely to attend college » More likely to succeed academically » Physically & emotionally healthier » Less likely to attempt or commit suicide » Demonstrate fewer behavioral problems in school » Less likely to be a victim of physical or sexual abuse » Less likely to abuse drugs or alcohol » Less likely to commit delinquent behaviors » Have a better relationship with their mothers and fathers » Decrease their chances of divorcing when they get married » Less likely to become pregnant as a teenager or impregnate someone » Less likely to be sexually active as teenagers » Less likely to contract STD's » Less likely to be raised in poverty FOR WOMEN » More satisfying relationship » Physically & emotionally healthier » Wealthier » Less likely to be victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or other violent crimes » Less likely to attempt or commit suicide Decrease risk of drug and alcohol abuse » Less likely to contract STD's » Less likely to remain or end up in poverty » Have better relationships with their children FOR MEN » Live longer » Physically & emotionally healthier » Wealthier » Increase in the stability of employment » Higher wages » Decrease risk of drug and alcohol abuse » Have better relationships with their children » More satisfying sexual relationship » Less likely to commit violent crimes » Less likely to contract STD's Less likely to attempt or commit suicide FOR COMMUNITIES » Higher rates of physically & emotionally healthy citizens » Higher rates of educated citizens » Lower domestic violence rates » Lower crime statistics & juvenile delinquency » Lower teenage pregnancy rates » Higher rates of home ownership » Lower rates of migration Higher property values » 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.