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Having a Partner or Living with a Partner: Differences in Life Satisfaction and Mental Health

Author

Listed:
  • Ann Evans

    (Australian National University)

  • Edith Gray

    (Australian National University)

  • Anna Reimondos

    (Australian National University)

Abstract

Using longitudinal data from Australia we compare the wellbeing effects of transitions both into and out relationships, using two different measures of wellbeing: life satisfaction and mental health. We distinguish between the formation, and ending of, three different types of relationships across three years: Living-apart-together (LAT), cohabitations, and marriages. For those in LAT relationships, we find they are quite distinct from other ‘single’ people. Starting, or ending, a LAT relationship has a significant impact on an individual’s wellbeing. We also find that transitions into relationships, and transitions out of relationships, do not have equivalent effects. Generally, moving from a relationship to being single had a more significant negative impact on life satisfaction and mental health, than moving into a relationship had a positive impact. These findings suggest that having an intimate partner, even one who is not co-resident, is related to higher levels of wellbeing compared to having no partner.

Suggested Citation

  • Ann Evans & Edith Gray & Anna Reimondos, 2023. "Having a Partner or Living with a Partner: Differences in Life Satisfaction and Mental Health," Applied Research in Quality of Life, Springer;International Society for Quality-of-Life Studies, vol. 18(5), pages 2295-2313, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:ariqol:v:18:y:2023:i:5:d:10.1007_s11482-023-10186-9
    DOI: 10.1007/s11482-023-10186-9
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