DRAFT FOR REVIEW – 2/12/2008 – Taryn Mueller

I DON’T WANT YOUR MONEY HONEY

I WANT YOUR LOVE

Recent research by online relationship service eHarmony has found that an astonishing 1 in 5 of married Australians don’t believe that they will be in a relationship in December 2009. When asked about their personal economic situation 3 in 5 males (58%) and half of married women (50%) admitted to feeling it causes stress to their love life.

Jane Austen once suggested, “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife.” However, many modern day Australians are currently caught in the midst of 2008’s global economic crisis and are faced with financial obstacles and barriers. But, to what extent does a person’s financial situation influence their desire to be in a relationship?

“While economic stress may increase peoples’ desires for connection, it is also one of the most common reasons relationships turn sour,” said eHarmony Senior Research Scientist Dr. Gian Gonzaga.

Married Australians are not the only ones who are feeling the financial strain on their personal relationships. 1 in 5 of unmarried Australian men (18%) have experienced an increased desire to be in a long-term relationship as a result of the current economic climate. Whereas only 1 of 7 unmarried Australian women (14%) admitted to an increased desire to be in a long-term relationship.

“Interestingly, most unmarried people in the survey said companionship is what appeals to them most about being in a long-term relationship,” Gonzaga said.

Astonishingly, half of the Australians surveyed (52%) admit that their current financial situation causes stress to their love lives. However, it is common for history to repeat itself, which suggests that the economy will eventually recover. The time this will take presents an opportunity to search past first impressions to appreciate the strength that a relationship can offer.

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If you would like more information regarding this topic, please contact Mike Maurice at Zing on (02) 8303 6464 or email

eHarmony website: www.eharmony.com.au

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