Based on lots of research and government funding, we now have a clear standard for a "healthy marriage". This can be really helpful to guide us in where we want to go as couples and as a society.

What is a Healthy Marriage Anyway?
 
Healthy, long lasting marriages can take many different forms. 
 
Healthy marriages go through difficult periods.
 
Experts agree there is no single "cookie cutter" approach to having a healthy marriage. 
 
However, researchers have identified the following core characteristics that most healthy marriages share:
 
     * commitment to each other over the long haul
 
     * positive communication
 
     * ability to resolve disagreements and handle conflicts nonviolently
 
     * emotional and physical safety in interaction
 
     * sexual and psychological fidelity
 
     * mutual respect
 
     * spending enjoyable time together
 
     * providing emotional support and companionship
 
     * mutual commitment to their children 
 
For further information see:
Child Trends' Research Brief:
What is "Healthy Marriage?" Defining the Concept.
The NHMRC tip sheet: "How to Know if you have a Healthy Marriage" The NHMRC tip sheet: "10 Things You Can Do to Have a Healthy Marriage."
Available at:  www.healthymarriageinfo.org  

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