However, same-sex couples resolve conflicts more effectively, and distribute household labor more fairly compared to their heterosexual counterparts.[1][2] Same-sex marriage remains illegal in many countries, and in many parts of the United States (where much research on marriage and health has been conducted).[3] In these regions same-sex couples are not granted the institutional protections of marriage or its accompanying legal barriers to relationship dissolution.[9] Moreover, same-sex couples are more likely to experience discrimination against their sexual orientation, contributing to problems with mental health and relationship quality.[10]