A recent survey of 1,800 couples in the Journal of Couple and Relationship Therapy found that couples who placed money and possessions above all else were also less satisfied with their relationships compared to couples where at least one person wasn’t materialistic.

The study also found that non-materialistic pairs communicated more effectively than their money-minded counterparts, and tended to be more respectful of their partner’s viewpoints during a battle. Not surprisingly, money-loving couples also reported being less satisfied in the bedroom.

It seems that these couples put less time and energy into the relationship because they’re looking for happiness solely in possessions, not people. And by placing focus on purchasing more things, these couples are also hurting their wallets in the process: spending money unwisely, thus creating additional financial stress in the marriage.

Apparently, materialistic couples and their 'keeping-up-with-the-Jones' attitude are so busy comparing themselves to people who make more money or have a bigger house. Ultimately, they end up thinking they’re worse off than they actually are.

So how to avoid this in your relationship? Simple: the key is living within your means. And always stow away at least 3 months of emergency cash or more if you can manage it. The less you worry about money, the more you’ll be able to focus more on nurturing your relationship.