The latest research, published in a scientific journal Journal of Consumer Research, has found solid evidence that couples who have joint bank accounts have better relationships, fewer disputes over money, but also feel better about how to handle family finances, especially especially a stronger relationship, as reported by the science news site ScienceDaily.
Couples who keep money together can love each other longer
What did the research find?
The study, led by PhD, associate professor Jenny Olson, recruited 230 engaged or newly married couples and followed them for more than two years. At the beginning of the study, everyone had their own account. The average age is 2 years old, they have known each other for an average of 28 years and have been in a relationship for an average of 5 years. 3% have had children.
All couples are divided into 3 groups: Keep separate bank accounts, Open a joint bank account, and decide for yourself.
The results showed that: After 2 years of follow-up, couples who opened joint bank accounts had significantly higher relationship quality than those who kept separate accounts, and they achieved consistency and transparency. transparency about larger financial goals as well as a shared understanding of marriage, according to ScienceDaily.
Meanwhile, those who kept separate accounts still thought it would be easier to break up, Dr. Olson said.
Couples who opened joint bank accounts had significantly higher relationship quality than those who kept separate accounts.
People with joint accounts have a "higher degree of community" in their marriage than those with separate or partial accounts, Dr. Olson said.
They feel more like they are "common business". This is the best evidence we have to date on the future of couples, and the effects evident over 2 years are pretty strong evidence of the benefits of holding money together, Dr. Olson said.
“Community level,” explains Ms. Olson, means that when couples hold money together, couples will think in terms of “us,” and meet each other’s needs in the sense of “I want to help you because you need it.” , you don't follow."
Meanwhile, couples who keep their money separately view financial decision-making as a trade-off. "If you help me, I'll have to help you later. I pay for the internet, you have to pay for the doctor.”… They don't work together like people with joint accounts.
Dr Satish Kumar CR, Consultant, Clinical Psychology, Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru (India), says that when they keep money together, they achieve more happiness, better mental health and relationships. the system is more robust, according to ScienceDaily.
