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Does marriage improve subjective health in Japan?

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  • Kazuma Sato

    (Takusyoku University)

Abstract

This study employs Keio Household Panel Survey data to examine the effect of marriage on health. On the basis of the analysis, five key points are identified. First, respondents who get married have better initial health than those who remain single. Second, marriage improves several health indicators. Third, health improvements following marriage are caused by decreased smoking and the improvement of mental health. Fourth, the effects of health improvements following marriage are larger for men than for women. Fifth, the sources of improved health following marriage differ between men and women.

Suggested Citation

  • Kazuma Sato, 2020. "Does marriage improve subjective health in Japan?," The Japanese Economic Review, Springer, vol. 71(2), pages 247-286, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:jecrev:v:71:y:2020:i:2:d:10.1007_s42973-019-00010-1
    DOI: 10.1007/s42973-019-00010-1
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Marriage; Health; Matching methods;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J12 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Marriage; Marital Dissolution; Family Structure
    • I12 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health Behavior

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