How “Thank You” Can Save a Marriage
Families split up every day. Two people who once loved each other deeply enough to decide to spend their lives together decide that they cannot live one more minute with each other. It is heartbreaking for the couple, but it can be even worse when there are children involved. Is divorce always necessary? And is there anything that couples can do to prevent what may seem like the inevitable?
Divorce is not always necessary. And yes, there are things that a couple can do to prevent something that seems to be so commonplace these days. One of the easiest things that people can do, according to some, is something that is free and quick: Express gratitude.
A recent study conducted by the University of Georgia says that the simple act of expressing gratitude is looking like a key to saving marriages. Co-author of the released study, Ted Futris, said, “We found that feeling appreciated and believing that your spouse values you directly influences how you feel about your marriage, how committed you are to it and your belief that it will last.”
For the study, researchers surveyed 468 legally married people. The list of questions included those regarding communication skills, finances and expressions of gratitude. What the researchers found was that expressions of gratitude were an indicator of marriage quality. A simple “thank you” goes a long way as far as the study participants were concerned. The study also found that even amidst troubles, partners who felt appreciated were less likely to turn to divorce as an option. Women who felt appreciated were more apt to look for a resolution to an argument that was due to poor communication.
Lead study author Allen Barton said, “This is the first study to document the protective effect that feeling appreciated by your spouse can have for marriages. We think it is quite important as it highlights a practical way couples can help strengthen their marriage, particularly if they are not the most adept communicators in conflict.”
So, have you said “thank you” today?
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Stephen Levine, is a Board Certified Specialist in Criminal Defense — an honor achieved by only the top criminal law attorneys in California. Mr. Levine has over 40 years of experience in criminal defense and family law serving Southern California, and is a highly regarded Super Lawyer as well as AV Rated attorney.