Research suggests that positive reinforcement and verbal encouragement from parents can significantly impact their children's self-esteem, behavior, and academic performance. When it comes to maintaining healthy marriages, however, affirming one another's efforts may be just as important. A study published in the Journal of Family Psychology found that couples who regularly acknowledged each other for their hard work and accomplishments reported greater relationship satisfaction and were less likely to experience infidelity. In contrast, those who criticized or dismissed their partner's achievements were more likely to have lower levels of marital happiness and commitment.
Parents play an essential role in shaping their child's worldview and teaching them how to interact with others. By praising their child's effort rather than focusing solely on outcomes, they help build resilience, confidence, and emotional regulation skills. This approach to parenting also teaches children that mistakes are opportunities for growth and learning, which can translate into more positive relationships later in life. The same is true for adults - when partners show appreciation for each other's contributions and acknowledge the challenges they face, they create a sense of safety and security that fosters intimacy and trust.
Consider a couple who has been together for many years but is struggling to stay connected due to demanding careers and stressful family obligations. If one partner consistently praises the other's efforts to balance work and personal life, even if they still feel overwhelmed, it can help ease tensions and reduce conflict. Likewise, showing appreciation for small gestures of kindness, such as cleaning up after dinner or taking care of errands, reminds both partners that their needs matter and builds a sense of mutual respect.
Parents who focus on affirming their children's efforts and setting clear expectations for behavior are more likely to see positive results in their kids' academic performance, self-esteem, and relationship success. The same holds true for adults seeking to maintain passionate, long-term romantic partnerships. By acknowledging one another's hard work, expressing gratitude for acts of service, and being open about struggles and frustrations, couples can preserve marital passion and strengthen their bond over time.
What role does affirmation of effort in parenting play in preserving marital passion?
Affirmations of effort are believed by many experts to be crucial for maintaining passion between partners. According to research conducted by Dr. John Gottman, one of the most prominent relationship scientists alive today, "affection is essential for keeping a marriage healthy," and he suggests that it can even predict divorce rates (Gottman 2015).