Mental Health

The 5 Types of Marriages, According to Experts

By Dynne C. | Update Date: Jan 15, 2024 03:03 AM EST

Marriage mirrors the varying experiences of couples, ranging from profound discontent to enduring fulfillment. 

In a comprehensive study, researchers looked at over 6,000 couples, revealing insights about marital satisfaction and quality. They considered the multifaceted nature of couples, acknowledging them as both partners and individuals. Within this framework, five discernible marriage types emerged, each describing demographic backgrounds, beliefs, roles, and relationship maintenance behaviors.

Devitalized couples trying to navigate dissatisfaction

Devitalized couples are the most dissatisfied type, struggling with discontent and contemplating divorce. This cohort, often younger, less educated, and employed in lower-status occupations, experiences shorter marriages marked by a surprising frequency of previous divorces.

Conflicted couples who somehow find resilience

Conflicted couples, despite facing communication challenges, show remarkable resilience. Sharing consensus on egalitarian roles and religion, they navigate the complexities of dissatisfaction with determination. Similar in demographics with devitalized couples, they stand firm despite contemplations of divorce, forming a unique subset within the spectrum of marital types.

Traditional couples and their stability

A distinct category within the typology of marriages, traditional couples emerge as satisfied custodians of tradition. Finding fulfillment in parenting and religious accord, these couples, though younger, have longer marriages, higher education, and greater earnings. Favoring conventional roles, they present a narrative of stability, contentment, and unwavering commitment to the sanctity of their first marriages.

Harmonious couples and finding balance

Despite differing opinions on parenting and other issues, harmonious couples can find balance in their relationship. Their journey is characterized by overall satisfaction and a unique ability to navigate the complexities of married life.

Vitalized couples and the height of marital satisfaction

At the height of marital satisfaction, vitalized couples showcase successful unions. These couples are often older, more educated, and economically stable. They are bound by enduring love, effective communication, and a flourishing marital bond, with divorce almost non-existent in this group.

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