New study shows that sharing housework could be detrimental to your nuptials
When we were growing up, we were always taught that sharing is the best policy when it comes to anything. However, according to a Norwegian study, that may not be the best for a marriage, at least when it comes to housework. That's because their report states that the divorce rate for households who share doing the dishes and taking out the garbage is fifty percent higher than that of households where the woman takes care of the chores.
We definitely don't preach keeping either side of the marriage locked into cleaning up after the other, especially since the study's results are a little misleading. It's true that the number is higher, but they have a lot to do with the socioeconomic background of the couple. Those betrothed who share the housework usually have both sides of the bed holding degrees. That empowers the female in a way those who aren't as educated, and thus holding less options, can't fathom. They don't have to rely on anyone else, and that leads to the possibility of independence if and when things go south in the relationship.
On the flipside, the relationships where the household's roles are clearly defined (one works and the other takes care of the home, for example) had a much easier time getting along, according to the study. Not stepping on each other's toes, or not fighting over competing interests allowed the couple to do their jobs to the best of their ability without worry of every little thing. That in itself can save a lot of grief, according to the researchers, whose study was published in Equality in the Home.
Either way, we feel that in both situations, communication is the best way for couples to enjoy a tension-free house. Talking and opening up about what bothers you, in a constructive way, can be your ticket to a long, happy relationship with your significant other.