Changing Family Patterns : Partnerships

Question 1

What have been the trends in marriage in recent years ?

Answer 1

Fewer people are marrying. However, there are more re-marriages. People are marrying later. Couples are less likely to marry in church.

Question 2

What are the reasons for changing patterns of marriage ?

Answer 2

Changing attitudes to marriage. Secularisation. Declining stigma attached to alternatives to marriage. Changes in the position of marriage. Fear of divorce.

Question 3

Explain how changing attitudes to marriage have caused a change in the patterns of marriage :

Answer 3

here is less pressure to marriage and more freedom for individuals to choose the type of relationship they want. There is now a widespread belief that the quality of a relationship is more important than its legal status.

Question 4

What are the reasons for the increase in cohabitation ?

Answer 4

Are a result due to the decline in stigma attached to sex outside of marriage. The young are more likely to to accept cohabitation. Increased career opportunities for women may mean they have less need for the financial security of marriage. Secularisation.

Question 5

What is the relationship between cohabitation and marriage ?

Answer 5

For some couples, cohabitation is just a stepping stone towards marriage whereas for others it’s a permanent alternative to marriage. Chester argues that for most couples cohabitation prepares them for marriage.