Characteristics of Stable Healthy Marriages (From Manning, 2006)
- A mutual belief in the institution of marriage
- A sense of spirituality
- Ability to be flexible when confronted with transitions and change
- An assumption of permanence regarding the marital relationship
- Cooperation
- Mutual enjoyment of shared time and one another’s company
- Feeling appreciated
- Fidelity (emotional, physical and sexual)
- Good communication
- Sexual relations that strengthen the marital bond
- Mutual respect
- Mutual support
- Positive thoughts and interactions outweigh negative ones (5 to 1)
- Shared values
- Trust