December 11, 2025
By: Erika Casamalhuapa
Marriage has been considered a necessary union in society throughout time. It is one of the foundations for healthy families and thriving societies. Unfortunately, there have been significant changes on the idea of this union over the last few decades, and consequently, marriage has been declining.
In 1949, the marriage rate was 78.8% compared to 46.8% in 2022. Since 2010 it has been below 50%. Of course, there are many factors that play into this social evolution. As this did not happen overnight, it’s important to investigate the past to understand this present situation.
The Sexual Revolution
In the late 1950s to early 1970, the sexual revolution took place. This reoriented the idea that sex did not have to be within the sacred bonds of marriage. The “free love” movement during this time was to create freedom from marriage, adultery, and birth control. Men and women fought to change marriage and push for sexual autonomy.
We can see the fruits of this in popular TV shows and fictional characters such as Joey Tribianni in Friends (who claimed to have an estimate of 51 sexual partners) and Family Guys Glenn Quagmire (who estimated to have 600). It is now acceptable to have multiple sexual partners, cohabitate, and have children however one chooses.
Declining Desire For Marriage
Even with knowledge of the benefits of marriage, cultural transformation in public opinion shows up in the data. One current example is evident in female youth who say they are less likely to marry someday. In 1990, 80% of 12th grade girls reported a desire for marriage in the future. This dropped to 67% in 2023. It is estimated that one-third of men and women who are 18-19 years old today will not be married by 2050.
The Rise of Cohabitation
As marriage has taken a step back, cohabitation has become the new mini marriage. It has gained popularity because it takes the pressure off to commit. Many will say that they need to live together for a trial period, but the truth is cohabitors are less likely to marry and more likely to dissolve their relationship.
Regardless, although the data shows that cohabitation has poor outcomes overall, the amount of serial cohabitation continues to grow. Men and women still have a desire for the intimacy that comes from marriage, but they are finding it through a new accepted alternative.
If serial cohabitors do marry, their divorce rate is twice as high, especially for women who cohabitate before marriage. It is troubling to note that in many developed countries a woman’s first union is predominantly cohabitation.
The Big Picture
We are constantly looking for happiness in life, and it is easy to be fooled into thinking excess money, goods, or status can bring happiness. Perhaps this is why when it comes to society’s view of marriage, we are missing the mark. We are so focused on immediate gratification of self that we miss the big picture.
The truth is, marriage is the closest intimate relationship we can have, and we see the benefits of this over years of longitudinal research. Focusing our efforts solely on individualism does not produce the joyous life that comes from marriage and family. Often happiness lies in relationships and our own self-esteem. These are things that we cannot purchase or buy. Often an individual’s biggest regrets happen when they find they have placed work and education over romance and family. Marriage can greatly improve our lives, and the lives of others. This is especially true when children are involved.
Children Born to Married Couples
There are many benefits for children who have married parents. One advantage is that children born to married parents have fewer behavioral problems than any other family arrangements.
These children progress more adequately throughout life than children born in non-married homes. Kids from marital unions also grow up to have a $1,900 increase in income by the time they are 30 years old. These kids are set up for success to become self-sustaining adults in the long run. The bottom line is that raising children within a marriage will be better for both parents and children.
The Advantages of Marriage
Changing views about marriage over time have left us with more questions than answers. We should be asking ourselves:
● Are men and women happier?
● What has been the overall impact?
● Has this change helped or hurt children?
Despite a shift in opinion, studies show that marriage continues to be beneficial. A harmonious marital relationship can increase our life satisfaction and provide social, emotional, and economic advantages. One study in Northern and Western Europe found the history of a stable marriage considerably improved one’s quality of life and health.
It is important that we support and encourage marriage. Healthy marriages equal healthy children, who then build healthy communities. We need to guide virtuous behaviors rather than promote systems that create dysfunction. Marriage lays the groundwork to create successful relationships, and it’s imperative we pass this message on to the generations to come.
Erika is a senior at Brigham Young University-Idaho, majoring in Marriage and Family Studies, and will graduate in December 2025. She lives in Hampstead, North Carolina, with her husband and three children. She is passionate about strengthening families and fostering healthy relationships. In her free time, she enjoys long walks, singing, playing volleyball, trying new foods, and spending time with friends and family.