Like most things, the institution of marriage slowly changes over time. This is due to an ever-changing society that dictates how divorces are perceived and handled. Our changing society often leads to new trends in divorce. In order to understand divorce rates, reasons for divorce, and how divorce is handled, one must analyze these updated trends.
Marriage and Divorce Rates Throughout the Decade
Divorce rates are certainly higher than they were in the 1950s; however, the current divorce rates are lower than they were in 2000. In 2000, the divorce rate was 4.0 per 1,000 people. In 2017, however, the rate was about 2.9 per 1,000 people.
Like divorce rates, marriage rates are also dropping. In 2000, the marriage rate was 8.2 per 1,000 people. However, in 2017, it dropped to 6.9 per 1,000 people. Marriage rates continue to drop, despite the rise in population. This could be for several reasons. Some reasons for the dropping marriage rates include:
- Economic factors
- Demanding career paths
- Conflicting personal priorities
- Equality between the two sexes
Most Common Reasons for Divorce
Many relationships that lead to divorce have similar issues. Some of the most common reasons for divorce include:
- Infidelity
- Jealousy
- Abuse
- Addictions
- Lack of communication
- Money problems
- Lack of intimacy
Many of these reasons begin with issues outside of the marriage. For instance, an addiction, financial issues, and an affair that started off as innocent friendship can lead to divorce. However, these issues often flow into the marriage, ultimately affecting the relationship as a whole.
How Divorce Has Changed
Nowadays, divorce is handled differently than former decades. As society changes, so do the standards for divorce. For instance, the modern woman has a career and her own income. This allows a woman to have her own assets and responsibilities. In previous decades, the women often did not have a job that demanded extra attention. Therefore, it gave her an advantage in a custody battle.
Custody laws often used the Tender Years Doctrine; a doctrine that claimed that children should remain with their mother after divorce. This was often successful since many mothers did not have a career that needed time and attention. However, this is no longer applicable, due to more mothers joining the workforce. This is just one important example of how divorce changes with societal expectations.
Moorestown Divorce Attorneys at Stockton Family Law Counsel Those Considering a Divorce
If you are considering divorce, speak to one of our experienced lawyers today about your options and rights. Our dedicated Moorestown divorce attorneys at Stockton Family Law help clients by providing legal counsel and expertise. Contact us online or call us today at 856-412-5052 to schedule a confidential consultation. Located in Moorestown, New Jersey, we also serve clients in Camden County, Burlington County, Mount Laurel, and throughout South Jersey.