Divorce reached its peak in the 1970s when about 50 percent of all marriages eventually collapsed. Since then, the divorce rate has been decreasing, and it may be lowest for the millennial generation.
Millennials look at life differently than their parents did at the same age, and their views on marriage and divorce result from the evolution of certain factors.
Forgoing the duty aspect
For generations, people often married because they were simply expected to do so. Society considered it a responsibility: get married, settle down, have a family. Today, millennials have so many choices; for example, in their careers, in entertainment options and in terms of dating. The divorce rate for this group is estimated to be about 40 percent. The fact that they wait longer to wed indicates that they are more selective about marriage partners than their parents might have been, and have a better chance for a lasting union.
Not religiously inclined
A report from the Pew Research Center shows that only about half of the millennials surveyed were affiliated with a branch of Christianity. When there is a lack of religious connection, it may bring with it a lack of pressure to marry.
Losing the stigma
Happily, there is a modern-day lack of stigma attached to both women and men who decide not to marry. Among millennials, budding relationships may also involve living together without a trip down the aisle, a decision that has become increasingly popular.
More degrees for women
Graduation rates for women have grown in the past several years. In fact, women are now earning more college degrees than men do. This affects the millennial marriage market because many female graduates are more interested in establishing careers than pursuing wedded bliss, at least for the time being.
Added stress
In the millennial world, life is not always perfect. The stress associated with careers, with climbing the ladder to become increasingly successful, can sometimes become all-consuming, a situation which can eventually lead to a parting of the ways as the only viable option for a couple. However, while divorce does strike millennials, the pragmatic outlook associated with this age group appears to foster closer relationships and longer marriages.