Changing Patterns Of Family Life : Divorce

Question 1

How many divorces took place after the divorce reform act ?

Answer 1

74000

Question 2

How many divorces took place in 2018 ?

Answer 2

90000

Question 3

What are the 5 main reasons for an increase in divorce ?

Answer 3

1. Changing attitudes to relationships
2. Reduced stigma and secularisation
3. Increased life expectancy
4. Changing gender roles
5. Growing individualism in society

Question 4

Reasons for changing attitudes for relationships (2 points )

Answer 4

1. Higher expectations of marriage

2. (Giddens) - confluent love has replaced romantic love and people leave partners in search of fulfilment

Question 5

Reasons for an increase in divorce because of reduced stigma and secularisation (2 points )

Answer 5

1. People are less guided by the church and make their own judgements
2. Less social disapproval of divorces ( especially with females )

Question 6

Reasons for an increase in divorce because of life expectancy

Answer 6

People now have longer to live meaning people are more likely to leave unhappy marriages and seek out new partners

Question 7

Reasons for the increase in divorces because of changing gender roles ( 2 points )

Answer 7

1. The rise of feminism and the greater career aspirations among females is a reason for the increase in divorce
2. The crisis of masculinity has meant many males have not adapted to changing gender roles

Question 8

Reasons for the increase in divorce related to growing individualism in society ( 2 points )

Answer 8

1. Carol smarts individualisation thesis says people are looking to satisfy their own needs rather then sacrifice their needs for their family .

Question 9

What are the consequences of divorce ? ( 3 points )

Answer 9

1. Conflict within families such as the impact to children over parental conflict
2. More lone parent and lone person households in society
3. Financial issues such as a loss of second income