A new study has found gratitude¹ and believing that your partner values you, directly influences how you behave in your marriage, as well as your levels of commitment.

 

Scientists at Georgia University asked 468 married people questions about their finances, communication style and how grateful they felt towards their partner.

 

They found that gratitude consistently predicts how happy someone will be in their marriage.

 

'It goes to show the power of "thank you,"' said the study's lead author Allen Barton, a postdoctoral research associate at UGA's Center for Family Research.

 

'Even if a couple is experiencing distress² and difficulty in other areas, gratitude in the relationship can help promote positive marital³ outcomes.'

 

The study also found that higher levels of saying 'thank you' protected men and women from the damage caused when arguing.

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