The Contribution of Marital Happiness to Global Happiness

Data from six U.S. national surveys are used to compare the estimated contributions to global happiness of marital happiness and satisfaction with each of seven aspects of life, ranging from work to friendships. Separate estimates are provided for white men, white women, black men, and black women. Except for black men, the estimated contribution of marital happiness is far greater than the estimated contribution of any of the kinds of satisfaction, including satisfaction with work. These findings, considered in conjunction with other evidence, indicate that Americans depend very heavily on their marriages for their psychological well-being. Some implications of the findings are discussed.