Women are happier in relationships when men feel their pain, suggests research at Harvard Medical School. The study examined videotaped discussions between 156 heterosexual couples about a frustrating, disappointment or upsetting incident in their lives. The researchers also surveyed the couples on their overall relationship satisfaction and measured their ability to empathize. They found that the men’s ability to read their female partners’ emotions correctly predicted greater relationship satisfaction. (Journal of Family Psychology, online Feb 27)

So men get your feeling words ready and practice communicating with your partner. This simple act could lead to increased relationship satisfaction for both of you. Don’t know how to express or identify feelings? Don’t worry – communication is not a talent or a gift, it’s a skill that you can learn how to use effectively.