Changing Pattens

Question 1

Marriage and cohabitation

Answer 1

Marriage rates were declining until recently

Question 2

Divorce

Answer 2

Before the nineteenth century, divorce could only be obtained through parliament at great cost. Unhappy couples without wealth might separate informally, but were not legally free to marry again. Marriage was regarded as a sacrament because of vows made to God. With secularisation, attitudes gradually changed. The growth of individualism made personal happiness more of a priority than approval by the community.

Question 3

Disruption to children’s lives

Answer 3

Over a quarter of British children are likely to experience the disruption of divorce by the age of sixteen. This can lead to them having to move areas

Question 4

Growth of single-parent families

Answer 4

Women are far more likely than men to have custody of the children after a break-up. Both partners have reduced living standards as their property is split and they have to pay for separate housing

Question 5

Growth of reconstituted families

Answer 5

Divorced people may marry or cohabit with new parents sometimes bringing up children from either or both previous relationships