Why is Marriage Important?

This Web site talks a lot about marriage, and that waiting until marriage is a sensible choice for your son or daughter to make when it comes to sex. But what's so valuable about marriage? Why is marriage any different, or any better than other family situations?

First of all, let's be clear on one important point. In general, children - and adults - do better in homes headed by a married mother and father. That's in general, or on average. There are countless single men and women doing a wonderful job raising children, and their children do very well.

What do you want your son or daughter to know about the benefits of marriage? Talking about the value of marriage now can help your son or daughter make good choices that will impact their future. Make sure you let them know what you want for their future. Marriage can be a positive part of your child’s life. Research supports this!

Talk about some of the benefits listed below. Through discussion, you can help them think about their own future.

What are the benefits married people enjoy?¹²

Live longer.¹³
Have better physical and emotional health.
Are happier.¹⁴
Earn more.¹⁵
Enjoy better sex lives.¹⁶^{, 17}
Save more so they have fewer money worries.

For more information on healthy marriages, check out this Web site from the Administration for Children and Families http://www.healthymarriageinfo.org/

Last revised: May 28, 2008