Research has long explored the health benefits of marriage for heterosexuals. As same-sex marriage continues to gain support, most recently from President Barack Obama, as well as resistance, like the new legislation in North Carolina, a Rutgers-Camden researcher is working to gain insight into how gay male relationships influence health outcomes and is seeking volunteers for her ongoing study.

Charlotte Markey, an associate professor of psychology at Rutgers University-Camden, with Rutgers-Camden psychologists Chris Nave and Kristin August, has been researching eating behaviors in families and couples for more than a decade. "Studies have long shown the positive benefits men gain from traditional marriages to women, from eating better to living longer. Very little research has examined both men and their partners in an attempt to understand relationship dynamics relevant to health and well-being," says Markey, who recently explored this issue in lesbian couples.

To contribute to the couples' health study, men in relationship with men who have been dating exclusively for more than six months, cohabitating or not, must answer a packet of questionnaires, complete a task with their significant other, and have their height and weight measured. Participation in the study will take about an hour and a half and will generate each couple $100.

"A large portion of the population relies on inaccurate stereotypes about LGBT relationships. We need research to show how and why those stereotypes may be wrong," adds the Rutgers-Camden researcher.

To learn more about the study and sign-up to participate, visit www.HealthyDevelopmentLab.com.

Media Contact: Cathy K. Donovan
856-225-6627
E-mail: catkarm@camden.rutgers.edu

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