While it’s not exactly surprising, humor is often overlooked as a vital component of any happy relationship. Research into the subject confirms that being funny isn’t just a core component of attracting a mate (without which many stand-up comedians would have to give up all hope), it is also important to maintaining a healthy, long-term relationship. 

The simple explanation is that if you laugh at your partner's jokes, chances are you find it easy to communicate with them. It’s not rocket science to make the connection between solid, honest communication and a relationship that lasts. 

Indeed, other studies have found that there is a pretty strong correlation between the frequency and intensity of one’s laughter from a loved one’s jokes and overall satisfaction in the relationship. So, if you truly are funny enough, you might be able to joke-brute force your way out of a failing marriage. Ironically, this might mean that married comedians must be funnier than divorced ones. 

Similarly, while it’s best if a joke comes from one of the partners, laughing together already comes with a number of benefits. Like any shared experience, it builds solidarity and camaraderie. Laughter, unlike traumatic events, is also generally an indicator of a good time with few (if any) negative side effects, except perhaps a shortness of breath.  

That being said, humor tends to help a relationship where both parties see it as humor, but there are some nuances. For example, self-deprecating humor or making fun of someone, apparently, does not have as positive of an effect on one's partner, unless they very specifically prefer these sorts of jokes.