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Making marriages last: Trust is good, but credible information is better

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  • Rebecca L. Thornton
  • Hans-Peter Kohler

Abstract

In high HIV-prevalence contexts, marriage can lead to significant risks through spousal behaviours. Yet, individuals cannot rely on their spouse to reveal their HIV status. Couples' HIV testing and counselling can provide spouses with credible information about each other's HIV status. Using random variation in participation in couples' testing, this study documents that uncertainty about spouses' HIV status contributes to marital dissolutions.

Suggested Citation

  • Rebecca L. Thornton & Hans-Peter Kohler, 2017. "Making marriages last: Trust is good, but credible information is better," WIDER Working Paper Series wp-2017-173, World Institute for Development Economic Research (UNU-WIDER).
    • Handle: RePEc:unu:wpaper:wp-2017-173
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    6. Becker, Gary S & Landes, Elisabeth M & Michael, Robert T, 1977. "An Economic Analysis of Marital Instability," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 85(6), pages 1141-1187, December.
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