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UK 
Assisting with household chores, childcare, and shopping not only strengthens the marital bond but also halves the risk of divorce.
Researchers from the London School of Economics and Political Science studied the lives of 3,500 married couples whose first child was born in the 1970s. Their findings were unequivocal: the more men participated in domestic tasks, the lower the risk of divorce. The study provides clear statistical evidence that active participation in home life contributes to greater marital stability.
Previously, researchers linked the rise in divorce rates—noticed in the UK as early as the 1960s—to the increasing number of married women entering the workforce. One widely advocated recipe for a strong marriage at that time was for women to stay at home while men dedicated themselves to their professional careers. Traditional gender roles were seen as a safeguard against family breakdown. However, modern studies demonstrate that this model does not necessarily lead to lasting happiness or strong family ties.
Current research indicates that a key factor in reducing the risk of divorce is the husband's involvement in household duties—repairing furniture, home maintenance, replacing burnt-out fuses, cleaning, and even cooking. Their participation in these activities is acknowledged to stabilize the marriage, regardless of whether the wife is employed or not. In fact, shared domestic responsibilities often lead to greater mutual appreciation and reduce the likelihood of resentment building over time.
These results were published in the latest issue of the quarterly journal "Feminist Economics." The article emphasizes that the emotional and practical benefits of shared responsibilities contribute significantly to the well-being of both partners.
In addition to the tasks mentioned, husbands can contribute by engaging in activities such as organizing family events, assisting with children's homework, managing household finances, and participating in community services. Such involvement not only distributes the workload more evenly but also fosters a deeper emotional connection between spouses, promoting mutual respect and understanding. Couples who work together tend to feel more like a team, which strengthens their resilience in the face of life’s challenges.
Moreover, shared responsibilities can lead to improved communication, as couples coordinate and collaborate on various tasks. This partnership approach can enhance problem-solving skills and reduce potential conflicts arising from unmet expectations or perceived imbalances in effort. When both partners feel their contributions are valued, it helps build a more equal and trusting relationship.
Incorporating these practices into daily life can contribute significantly to a more harmonious and enduring marital relationship. When partners support each other not only emotionally but also through everyday practical actions, they create a shared space of care and solidarity—one that becomes more difficult to fracture even in difficult times.