Gay couples are happier than straight couples

Gay and lesbian couples are happier than their straight counterparts, according to a new study.

Researchers found that same-sex couples enjoyed higher quality relationships than heterosexuals in Australia, and at the same level as in the UK.

Relationships between bisexuals, however, were the least happy in both countries, according to the study conducted at The University of Queensland, Australia.

The authors reasoned that homosexual relationships are happier because domestic labour is more likely to be shared equally, resulting in less conflict. Gay people are also more likely to feel like members of a wider community, which may boost their self esteem and well-being. In addition, the inequality and discrimination gay and lesbian people face could make them more invested in their partnerships. However, bisexual people may feel alienated from both heterosexual and gay communities.

The researchers made their findings by studying data from over 25,000 individuals in the UK's Understanding Society study, and more than 9,000 participants of the Australian Household, Income and Labour Dynamics Survey.

The team hopes that the data will be used to support policies that seek to legalise same-sex marriage and parenting rights, as well as to offer help to those who identify as bisexual.

"Our results provide robust evidence to combat deep-rooted and erroneous social perceptions of same-sex relationships being conflictual, unhappy, and dysfunctional," the authors concluded.

The results mirror a 2014 study by the Open University which found that gay couples are likely to be happier and more positive about their relationships. But they were much less likely to engage in public displays of affection due to fears of reprisal, The Independent reported.

Earlier in December, Australia became the latest country to legalise same-sex marriage.