Final answer:
Marital satisfaction is closely linked to positive interactions and communication in a relationship, with voice communication being particularly important for strong marital ties. Additionally, while blended families face unique stresses, the general aspiration for a committed lifelong marriage remains high among young people.
Step-by-step explanation:
Researchers have found that marital interactions play a significant role in marital happiness. Variables such as attachment, communication patterns (like messaging), division of responsibilities, and parental well-being all contribute to the state of a marriage. Notably, while text messaging can increase attachment in romantic relationships, it is the voice conversations that seem to truly strengthen the quality of those relationships. Moreover, intense negative marital interactions, such as those causing stress and poor communication, can have negative physiological responses, like cardiovascular reactivity. In terms of family structures, such as blended families, the challenges include managing different discipline techniques and the stress from amalgamating different family units. However, the aspiration for a strong marriage and family life remains high among youth, as evidenced by research findings that highlight the importance high school seniors place on having a lifelong marriage.