Marriage

Healthy marriages provide a good foundation for family life. Research shows that, on average, children raised by their married parents do better than children raised in other types of families. Marriage also matters to:

Individuals–Research shows that men and women in healthy relationships are likely to live longer, have better mental and physical health, report being happier, and build more wealth than those who remain single
Communities–Communities that have higher percentages of couples in healthy marriages tend to have higher rates of physically and emotionally healthy citizens, higher rates of educated citizens, lower crime statistics, and less need for social services
Policymakers–Marriage isn't just an act between two individuals. It's a social contract recognized by state, local and federal governments. Governments are involved with marriage in many ways, from tax laws to age restrictions, and everything in between.

In this section you will find information on what a healthy marriage is and isn't and how people benefit from marriage (both children and adults).

What is a Healthy Marriage?: This section includes information on the basics of what makes a Healthy Marriage.
What is an unhealthy relationship?: This section includes information on indicators of unhealthy relationships.
How do children benefit?: This section includes research-based findings on how children benefit from marriage.
How do adults benefit?: This section includes information on how adults benefit from marriage as compared to non-married counterparts.
How does the community benefit?: This section includes information on Community Healthy Marriage Initiatives and how Communities can benefit from Marriage.
Why does healthy marriage matter to policymakers?: This section includes information for identifying innovative strategies to promote social well-being through policy.
How to have a healthy marriage: This section of the website provides tips and resources for individuals who are married or interested in marriage to learn about creating a healthy marriage.
NHMRC Publications and Products: This section of the website includes publications written by the National Healthy Marriage Resource Center.