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How Does Marriage Affect Physical and Psychological Health? A Survey of the Longitudinal Evidence

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  • Wilson, Chris M.
  • Oswald, Andrew J.

Abstract

This paper examines an accumulating modern literature on the health benefits of relationships like marriage. Although much remains to be understood about the physiological channels, we draw the judgment, after looking across many journals and disciplines, that there is persuasive longitudinal evidence for such effects. The size of the health gain from marriage is remarkable. It may be as large as the benefit from giving up smoking.

Suggested Citation

  • Wilson, Chris M. & Oswald, Andrew J., 2005. "How Does Marriage Affect Physical and Psychological Health? A Survey of the Longitudinal Evidence," Economic Research Papers 269622, University of Warwick - Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:ags:uwarer:269622
    DOI: 10.22004/ag.econ.269622
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Health Economics and Policy; Labor and Human Capital;

    JEL classification:

    • I0 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - General
    • I12 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health Behavior

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