Researchers at the University of Georgia surveyed more than 100 Georgia couples. They asked husbands and wives separately about their spending and saving habits, income, and how happy they were with their finances and marriage.
The study found that partners who viewed each other as savers reported higher marital happiness and better financial well-being. Perceptions mattered more than actual financial numbers. For example, couples who spent more than they saved still felt pleased if one partner believed they were saving. The study also showed differences between men and women, and researchers said that talking about money builds understanding and empathy.
Difficult words
- researcher — people who do scientific studiesResearchers
- survey — to ask people questions for a studysurveyed
- couple — two people in a romantic relationshipcouples
- spend — to use money to buy thingsspending, spent
- perception — an idea or belief about a situationPerceptions
- empathy — ability to understand another person's feelings
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you or people you know talk about money with a partner? Why or why not?
- How can talking about money help a relationship?
- Why might what partners believe about saving be important, even if numbers are different?
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