Cohabitation, Marriage and Divorce

• Changes in the family-


  The roles in the family are becoming more equal as there is a higher expectation of what marriage should be
• Postmodern reasons-

  -The pure relationship (Giddens)

  -People want perfect marriages so could put people off marriage.
• Seclurisation-


  This reduction in religious influence has lead to an increase in divorce and cohabitation as its become more acceptable.
• Changing role of women-


  As women have become more independent and gained equal rights they no longer need the security of marriage leading to them cohabitating first
• Social changes-


  Changing expectations of marriage means people are more likely to leave their marriage if it doesn't fit their expectations
• Economic reasons-


  Women are more economically independent so dont need to marry for security.
• Legal changes-

  Divorce reform act has made divorce much easier and same sex marriage are now included in statistics (explains slight rise)
• Positive impacts of trends-

  -Feminists- cohabitation has led to more negotiation and equality in rights

  -Beyjouan and Ni-Brioichain- Cohabitation is the new normal, used as a pre-marriage test causing a decrease in divorce

  -Bernardes- divorce is less damaging on children than a negative marriage
• Negative impacts of trends-

  -Wilson and Stuchbury- cohabitation is less stable then marriage

  -murphy- Children of cohabitating parents are disadvantaged

  -New Right- divorce is eroding the very fabric of society

  -Feminists- Divorce laws have helped women gain more freedom, independence and social equality.