This new study from Michigan State University has found that a happy spouse is good for the well-being of the other in the couple. She also showed that a sad partner could make you sick.
The study, published online in the journal Health Psychology, followed 1,981 couples, men and women aged 50 and over, for six years. The subjects were tested on their levels of satisfaction, daily tasks, exercise and chronic diseases such as diabetes.
Health affected by an unhappy partner
Results: Participants with happy partners were healthier overall than those with unhappy spouses.
“Even if you’re very happy, your health can be negatively affected by the unhappy spouse,” says William Chopik, assistant professor of psychology at Michigan State University and lead author of the study.
A happy partner would improve health
There would be at least three possible reasons for the improved health of a happy spouse. First, stronger social support, compared to unhappy partners who focus more on their own problems. Also, happy people can bring unfortunate engage in activities that promote good health. Finally, a happy partner would make life easier, even if not explicitly a happier life.
“This finding greatly expands hypotheses about the relationship between happiness and health, suggesting a unique social bond,” continues William Chopik. “Simply having a happy partner can improve health as much as striving to be happy yourself.”
Conclusion: look for a partner happy to live!
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– Unusual: happy marriage makes you fat!
