The Effects of the Socio-economic Resources, Psychological and Relational Traits on Marital Satisfaction and Stability of Korean Baby Boomers: A Focus on Gender Differences

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to identify four types of marriage based on marital satisfaction and stability, and to examine the effects of socio-economic resources, psychological and relational traits on each type of marriage. Four types of marriage are characterized as satisfied-stable, dissatisfied-stable, satisfied-unstable, and dissatisfied-unstable. We surveyed 2,078 respondents born between 1955 and 1963. The major findings are as follows. First, women are less satisfied with their marital relationships and more likely to have given a serious thought about divorce than men. Second, there are gender differences in the effects of socio-economic resources on marital satisfaction and stability. Third, stable psychological state is an important factor for a satisfied and stable marriage for both men and women. Fourth, frequent communication has positive effects on marital satisfaction and stability of both men and women. Lastly, negative communication styles such as arguing or violent behavior have negative effects on marital satisfaction and stability of men. Whereas for women, the absence of communication with spouse have negative effects on marital satisfaction and stability. In conclusion, the relationships between socio-economic resources, psychological and relational traits, and each type of marriage display some gender differences as well as similarities.