Name: What you don't know about marriage
Uploaded: 2012-02-14T15:41:38Z
Duration: 11 min
Description: In this funny, casual talk from TEDx, writer Jenna McCarthy shares surprising research on how marriages (especially happy marriages) really work. One tip: Do not try to win an Oscar for best actress.

In this funny, casual talk from TEDx, writer Jenna McCarthy shares surprising research on how marriages (especially happy marriages) really work. One tip: Do not try to win an Oscar for best actress.

What you don't know about marriage

Happily ever after is less about grand gestures and more about everyday habits, research suggests. From the odd statistic that half of US marriages end within a decade, to the curious 'Oscar curse' that predicts divorce after a big win, the path to lasting partnership is far from fairy-tale perfect. Couples who celebrate each other's quirks, divide chores, and focus on what works tend to go the distance. Science finds that smiling in childhood photos or praising a spouse’s efforts can have surprising long-term effects.