Trends in the Family Flashcards
What is the trend of marriage rates in the UK as of 2020?
In 2020, marriage rates were 350,000, which dropped to 230,000
This indicates a significant decline in marriage rates over the years.
What are some social policies that encourage marriage?
- Inheritance tax/pensions
- Benefits reduction for single parents or unmarried couples
- Tax breaks
- Equalization of finances if the marriage breaks down
These policies are designed to support married couples financially.
What characterizes a legally binding marriage?
A legally binding contract between two people
This contract outlines the rights and responsibilities of each partner.
Fill in the blank: A major reason for the decline in marriage is the _______.
[expensive cost of weddings and social acceptance of cohabitation]
True or False: People are increasingly more religious, which contributes to higher marriage rates.
False
Many people are not as religious, which correlates with the decline in marriage rates.
What are some reasons for the decline in marriage?
- Expensive costs
- Socially acceptable to cohabitate
- Work-related issues
- Higher divorce rates
- Cohabitation is more common
These factors contribute to changing societal norms regarding marriage.
According to Smart and Stevens, what has made it easier for people to leave relationships?
Cohabitation and changing societal norms
These changes have led to a mindset where leaving is more acceptable.
What does the term ‘cohabitation’ refer to?
Living together without being married
Cohabitation has become more common and socially acceptable in recent years.
What has changed regarding the stigma around alternative relationship options?
There is less stigma associated with options such as cohabitation and single parenthood
This shift reflects changing societal attitudes toward family structures.
What impact has the fear of divorce had on marriage rates?
It has contributed to a decline in marriage rates
Fear of divorce can deter individuals from marrying.
How has the position of women influenced marriage trends?
Women are more empowered and have more options outside of marriage
This empowerment has led to changing expectations and choices regarding marriage.
What is divorce?
A legal termination of marriage
Divorce involves formal legal processes to end a marital relationship.
What are the three stages of divorce?
- Petition
- Decree Nisi
- Decree Absolute
These stages outline the legal process of divorce from initiation to finalization.
What is separation in the context of divorce?
- Involuntary physical separation
- Couples legally married but live apart
- Breakdown of a marriage where the couple still lives together
Separation can refer to various forms of living arrangements while still being legally married.
What legal changes have impacted divorce?
- Divorce is cheaper
- Expanded grounds for divorce
- Equalizing the grounds
These changes have made divorce more accessible and equitable for both parties.
How has women’s economic position impacted divorce rates?
Women are less dependent on men due to improvements in their economic position
Economic independence allows women to leave unsatisfactory marriages without financial fear.
What societal trend has influenced marriage expectations?
Higher expectations for marriage and willingness to tolerate an unhappy marriage has decreased
Modern couples often expect more from their relationships, leading to less tolerance for dissatisfaction.
Fill in the blank: The first stage of divorce is called _______.
[Petition]
True or False: The decree absolute is the first stage of divorce.
False
What factors have contributed to the secularization of marriage?
Religion has less influence on people’s marriages
This trend indicates a shift toward more secular viewpoints in personal relationships.
What are some reasons for the increase in divorce rates?
- Legal reforms
- Women’s economic independence
- Changing societal expectations
These factors contribute to a higher rate of divorces in modern society.
Fill in the blank: The second stage of divorce is called _______.
[Decree Nisi]
What does the term ‘decree absolute’ refer to?
The final stage of divorce that legally ends the marriage
After this stage, both parties are free to remarry.
What has caused a rise in single-parent households?
Increase in divorce rates and single parents, predominantly women
Approximately 90% of single parents are women
What trend has been observed in family structures?
Rise in reconstituted families
Reconstituted families are those formed by remarriage or cohabitation
What does LATS stand for in the context of family trends?
Living Apart Together
LATS refers to couples who are in a committed relationship but live separately
What is a notable trend regarding aging populations?
It is common for one partner to die, leaving the other to live alone
This trend is increasing as life expectancy rises
What has happened to the proportion of single adults since 1971?
Increased by about half
This reflects changing societal norms and attitudes toward marriage
True or False: The decline in marriage rates has not affected younger people living alone.
False
Younger people are increasingly living alone due to declining marriage rates
What is a significant factor influencing employment trends?
Increase in short-term contracts
This trend requires individuals to adapt to more flexible job arrangements
Fill in the blank: The rise in _______ has contributed to changes in family structures.
divorce rates
What societal change has reduced the stigma around non-traditional relationships?
Rise in LATs and easier career pursuit
Less social stigma allows for greater flexibility in personal and professional choices
What has influenced individual relationships according to media portrayal?
Changes in commitment and declining traditional relationship models
Media representation plays a significant role in shaping perceptions of relationships
What lifestyle change is associated with postmodernism?
Increased freedom to live life on one’s own terms
This reflects a broader societal shift towards individualism and personal choice
