Marriage
Overview
About Marriage
Marriage is a cornerstone in the study of sexual health. Decades of research show that monogamous relationships have lifelong benefits on individuals, families, the economy, and society.
Evidence consistently points to marriage as the sexual relationship most strongly associated with lasting satisfaction, deeper bonding, and healthier patterns of attachment. Unlike cohabitation, marriage signals a deep, mutual commitment that fosters emotional connection and a stable foundation for family life.1
Consider the next generation. Children raised in married, two-parent households tend to experience greater stability, reflecting how the health of the couple’s relationship can influence the parent–child bond. On a broader scale, monogamous marriage is linked with emotional intimacy, greater relational security, and a reduced risk of sexually transmitted infections.1
Across our research, the findings are clear. Marriage yields a positive impact on our world.
1W. B. Wilcox, J. R. Anderson, W. Doherty et al., “Why Marriage Matters, Third Edition: Thirty Conclusions from the Social Sciences” (New York: Institute for American Values National Marriage Project, 2011).
Where the
Research Leads
What You Can Do
Invest in policies and programs that encourage delaying sexual activity until marriage, which could lead to improved health outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and economic savings.
Incorporate marriage as part of the Success Sequence to help students see how intentional choices lead to stronger families, improved health, and greater economic opportunity.
Parents play the most influential role in shaping their children’s attitudes toward sex and marriage. Model the benefits of long-term commitment and communicate openly about healthy relationships.
Provide mentoring, resources, and support systems that reinforce the importance of commitment and stable family formation. Promoting the principles of the Success Sequence with practical tools for relationship and life planning.
Further Reading
