There are a lot of reasons to be loving to your partner, but if you need a self-serving reason, a new study published in Health Psychology has got you covered: Your own physical health may be linked to the happiness of your husband or wife.
The researchers used data from almost 2,000 couples from a nationwide sample of Americans older than 50 whose happiness levels had been measured since 1992. The researchers found that health was associated with the happiness levels of his or her spouse, and people with an unhappy partner had overall worse health.
Assistant professor of psychology at Michigan State University and the study's lead author William J. Chopik told The New York Times:
"This speaks to the power of close relationships. We've known for a long time that when we surround ourselves with happy people, we're happier. But now we know that it not only makes us happier, but healthier as well."
In other words, make your partner happy, and you'll be healthier. More motivation not to be a dick.
