Married couples less happy with children

William Atkins
Sunday, 12 April 2009 18:58

Science - Health

On the other hand, the research did show that some couples did experience enhanced marital bliss after the birth of their first child.

Those couples had higher incomes or had been married longer than the couples who had lower incomes or had been married shorter periods.

Dr. Stanley warns, however, "There are different types of happiness in life and that while some luster may be off marital happiness for at least a time during this period of life, there is a whole dimension of family happiness and contentment based on the family that couples are building."

"This type of happiness can be powerful and positive but it has not been the focus of research.” [Eureka!]

An interesting article on levels of happiness around the world is found in the PEW Global Attitudes Project article "Happiness Is Increasing in Many Countries -- But Why?".

It states that rising incomes is one major reason for increased happiness but it is not the only reason.