How Millennials Are Decreasing the Divorce Rate

 Posted on January 11, 2019 in Family Law

Although social media has many redeeming qualities, social media seems to pick on everyone at some point. However, a favorite target appears to be the newcomers on the block, the Millennials. Also known as Generation Y, the term Millennials refers to anyone born anywhere from the early 1980s to the early 1990s. Regardless of the credibility of their social wrap sheet, there is one area that this generation seems to excel where other generations have failed; that is, they are decreasing the divorce rate.

Let us explore why:

A Dramatic Decrease

Each generation behaves markedly different than the preceding generation; the same is true in this circumstance. Americans under the age of 45 have found a unique way to oppose their parents: to stay married. Between the years of 2008 and 2016, America saw an 18% decline in divorce rates. Researcher and University of Maryland professor Philip Cohen went on to explain that even when all other influential factors, such as age, were removed the equation, this period still experienced a dramatic decline from the previous years.

Factor 1: Delayed Marriage

Now we know there is a definite decrease in the number of couples dissolving their marriages, yet many people want to know why. One of the leading reasons is that this generation is putting off getting married, or not getting married at all. In recent surveys, young people today state that they prefer to finish school and become financially stable before settling down. Most Millennials agree they would not even consider marriage before their late 20’s or even their 30’s. The US Census Bureau confirms and reports the average age for a first marriage is now 27 for women and 29 for men.

Factor 2: Financial Status

The research also explains that throughout the last few years, marriage has become more closely tied to economic status than in years past. Since Millennials wait until they are financially stable, marriage has unintentionally become a modern-day status symbol.

Consider the difference in the two situations: A permanent, well-paying job that offers regular hours grants the opportunity to spend more time at home building a strong relationship, which contributes to the emotional security necessary for marriage. Many less financially stable couples choose cohabitation rather than marriage. These families live together and raise children, yet they never legally “tie the knot.” Sometimes these couples are too busy working multiple jobs to find time to strengthen their relationship, let alone to plan a wedding.

Ask a DuPage County Lawyer

These statistics are only meant to be an explanation of current research. Every relationship is different. Couples marry and divorce for varying reasons each day, regardless of generation. If you and your spouse are experiencing difficulties, you may want to discuss your concerns with a Hinsdale, IL divorce attorney. The compassionate attorneys at the Law Office of Martoccio & Martoccio will listen carefully to your situation and will help you choose the path that is right for you. Find out how we can help by utilizing our free and confidential initial consultation. Schedule your visit to our office by calling 630-920-8855 today.

Sources:

https://www.livescience.com/38061-millennials-generation-y.html

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/divorce-rate-declining-thank-millennials_n_5bad0556e4b0425e3c213e92

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-09-25/millennials-are-causing-the-u-s-divorce-rate-to-plummet