Reasons for changing trends (Marriage)

• The age of first marriage is rising as there are changing societal values (e.g. women in work)
• Secularisation (a decline in church influence) is making young people have more freedom not to worry about marrying
• There is a declining stigma about cohabitation, remaining single and having children outside of marriage
• Women are less economically dependant on men
• The fear of divorce may put people off marriage