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In a 1986 study of 351 marriages which had lasted
for at least 15 years, the question was asked, "What are the most important
ingredients in your experience of marriage?"
The responses are listed in order of frequency as named by husbands and wives who were interviewed separately. HUSBANDS' RESPONSES 1. My spouse is my best friend. 2. I like my spouse as a person. 3. Marriage is a long-term commitment. 4. Marriage is sacred. 5. We agree on aims and goals. 6. My spouse has grown more interesting. 7. I want the relationship to succeed. 8. An enduring marriage is important to social stability. 9. We laugh together. 10. I am proud of my spouse's achievements. 11. We agree on a philosophy of life. 12. We agree about our sex life.
WIVES' RESPONSES 1. My spouse is my best friend. 2. I like my spouse as a person. 3. Marriage is a long-term commitment. 4. Marriage is sacred. 5. We agree on aims and goals. 6. My spouse has grown more interesting. 7. I want the relationship to succeed. 8. We laugh together. 9. We agree on a philosophy of life. 10. We agree on how and how often to show affection. 11. An enduring marriage is important to social stability. 12. We have a stimulating exchange.
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