Family Support and Happiness: How Does Marriage Affect a Person’s Health?
According to scientific research, marriage has a significant impact on a person’s happiness.
An international study published in the journal Personal Relationships found that unmarried men and women rate their physical and psychological well-being lower than those who are married. Moreover, the role of family in this difference varies depending on cultural context.
The research team analyzed data from two national studies — Midlife in the U.S. (MIDUS) and Midlife in Japan (MIDJA) — involving 4,746 people over the age of 30. Only participants who identified themselves as “married” or “never married” were included. Those in civil or romantic relationships were excluded.
In the first wave, respondents assessed family support and relationship tension. Several years later, in the second wave, they reported their physical health and life satisfaction.
The results showed that in both the U.S. and Japan, single participants had lower levels of health and life satisfaction than married ones. These findings align with many previous studies suggesting that marriage is generally associated with better well-being.
According to Lester Sim, a researcher at Singapore Management University, even though the number of single people is increasing worldwide, societal norms surrounding marriage still shape how people perceive being single.
He stated:
“Both in the U.S. and Japan, single participants reported receiving less family support and experiencing more tension in relationships. Although singleness is becoming more common, it still carries social and emotional costs.”
