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Marriage Paradoxes

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  • Bruno S. Frey
  • Reiner Eichenberger

Abstract

Empirical research reveals that marriage decisions systematically deviate from the predictions based upon the conventional neo-classical approach in four respects: (1) people search surprisingly little for available marriage partners; (2) the characteristics of a potential partner are evaluated in a strongly biased way; (3) individuals take little advice for their marriage decision; and (4) the likelihood of one's own marriage ending in a divorce is strongly underestimated. These marriage paradoxes can be integrated into the rational-choice approach: individuals are aware of the possibility of falling prey to such paradoxes, and therefore take precautions at individual and institutional levels.

Suggested Citation

  • Bruno S. Frey & Reiner Eichenberger, 1996. "Marriage Paradoxes," Rationality and Society, , vol. 8(2), pages 187-206, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ratsoc:v:8:y:1996:i:2:p:187-206
    DOI: 10.1177/104346396008002004
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Stutzer, Alois & Frey, Bruno S., 2006. "Does marriage make people happy, or do happy people get married?," Journal of Behavioral and Experimental Economics (formerly The Journal of Socio-Economics), Elsevier, vol. 35(2), pages 326-347, April.
    2. Samuel Cameron, 2002. "The Economics Of Partner Out Trading in Sexual Markets," Journal of Bioeconomics, Springer, vol. 4(3), pages 195-222, October.

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