Question: what are the characteristics of an effective marriage?
Answer: Intentionality. Intentionality is a major component of strong marriages. ... 
Empathy. Empathy is the ability to relate to how someone else is feeling—to be able to put yourself in their shoes. ... 
Forgiveness. Cheri McDonald, Ph. ... 
Integrity. This one's simple. ... 
Intimacy. ... 
Shared Values. ... 
Connection. ... 
Openness.