Does Marriage Matter? This Study Says Yes

The commitment of marriage provides the ingredients of success

The UK researchers discovered several factors that are crucial for successful relationships: a deliberate decision, a clear plan that removes ambiguity, and social affirmation and accountability that motivates the couple. These ingredients are optional among cohabiting couples but are present by definition in the act of marriage. They are even present in the wedding ceremony! The words “I do” reflect a clearcut decision, the wedding vows provide the plan going forward for each spouse’s attitude toward (and conduct within) the relationship—and what more social affirmation and accountability support can there be than a crowd of witnesses to the day?

Then, when the big day has come and gone, living out that marriage commitment day by day—putting those vows to work through the highs and lows of life—requires all of those key elements. In other words, the amazing thing is that marriage itself provides the very elements it needs to survive . . . and thrive!

In an era when more and more people are asking “does marriage matter?” the data uncovered in this new study is a powerful example of why it matters . . . and matters a lot. Marriage gives a relationship both roots and wings. The roots of a lifetime commitment, and the wings of freedom that come from knowing you are truly loved—not just in the good times or when things are easy, but for life.

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