FOR THE LOVE OF RELATIONSHIPS – Making Marriage and Family Formation Cool
May 21, 2025
According to Brad Wilcox, Ph.D., in his book Get Married, marriage has declined 65% since the 1970s. In a world that increasingly celebrates individualism and personal freedom, the value of marriage, commitment, and family formation can seem like an outdated ideal. Yet, the emotional and empirical evidence tells a different story. Marriage isn’t just a social tradition; it’s a cornerstone of human flourishing, deeply tied to our well-being, stability, financial success, and happiness.
Research overwhelmingly highlights that married individuals experience better physical and mental health. A study published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior found that married people are less likely to experience loneliness, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. They also recover more quickly from illness, have lower rates of heart disease, and live longer. Why? Because commitment fosters support, accountability, and a shared sense of purpose. When two people build a life together, they create a foundation that nurtures resilience and emotional security.
