For first time, unmarried households reign in US

[sweeps]

It is by no means dead, but for the first time, a new survey has shown that traditional marriage has ceased to be the preferred living arrangement in the majority of US households.

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What do you think? Is this good news, bad news, or a non-issue?

[pearlieq]

Re: For first time, unmarried households reign in US

Non-issue, of course.

As long as it doesn't affect me, what do I care?

[sakigt]

Re: For first time, unmarried households reign in US

Pff. It affects EVERYONE if you think about it.

Heath insurance: family plans vs two single plans
Home ownership: 2 people with one mortgage vs two mortgages

The list could go on...

[pearlieq]

Re: For first time, unmarried households reign in US

Pff. It affects EVERYONE if you think about it.

The sandwich I had for lunch today could affect EVERYONE if you thought about it long enough.

Our society is kind of at an odd place, demographically. Many of our parents and grandparents are heading into retirement. Many are more likely to become divorced or widowed as they get older. Many of the boomers' kids are just starting out--more likely to be living together than married with kids yet.

I don't see this new demographic trend as alarming--just a reflection of where our society is right now.

[Ima saver]

Re: For first time, unmarried households reign in US

I could not imagine ever being single! I think i was single for about 5 weeks, once!!

[tabbycat31]

Re: For first time, unmarried households reign in US

I have yet to have a man that I've been serious with (a few casual flings, but none have worked out). And at about the age of 16, I told myself that I wouldnt be married until I was closer to 30. That is normal in my area, however if I went to a more conservative, rural area, people are more likely to be married by the time they are my age (26), and perhaps have families.

I guess it depends on where you are from too..... I have no married friends.

[Bookie]

Re: For first time, unmarried households reign in US

Some of the happiest people I've known have been married -- not to one another, of course.

[Ima saver]

Re: For first time, unmarried households reign in US

Well I have been happily married for almost 30 years. I would be lost without my dh.

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[kashi]

Re: For first time, unmarried households reign in US

Interesting article. It makes me happy, personally, since I am unmarried, have no inclination to get married, and have been happily living with my SO for years!

I'm glad I have the freedom to live my life the way I choose. :

[Ima saver]

Re: For first time, unmarried households reign in US

Oh, if i was living with a SO, I would be happy. I just don't think I could live alone.

[JoyJoy]

Re: For first time, unmarried households reign in US

Bad news. My view is from a religious standpoint. I do believe in the Book of the Law (The Bible) that marriage is sanctioned and sacred to God. I feel SOME people tend to do better in life when they are committed to one another. (Some will never be committed no matter if they are single or married). Just like tithing, things just seem to work out better when one follows the principles in the Bible.

I do enjoy the benefits of marriage.

My 2 cents worth.

[Diolla]

Re: For first time, unmarried households reign in US

I think it is sad. Are we so self centered we can't commit to anything but our own immediate pleasure? Marriage is just that, a committment to live not just for yourself but for another. I just see this as another indication of selfishness and immaturity in our culture.

[pearlieq]

Re: For first time, unmarried households reign in US

I just see this as another indication of selfishness and immaturity in our culture.

So someone is selfish when they're widowed? Or when their spouse walks out on them? Or when haven't found the right person yet? Or when they've found someone great, and are taking the time to learn more about them before committing to marriage?

[Gruntina]

Re: For first time, unmarried households reign in US

Its the choice of the person to want individualism or partnership. Some what both so maybe partly why to some coupled agree they do not need a marriage license/signed papers? (This is geared towards unmarried households of couples living together long term.)

[PRICEPLUS]

Re: For first time, unmarried households reign in US

Well, I guess marriage is not for everyone. It is for me though! I guess we'll have to wait and see how things play out in the future to really know what effect if any this situation causes.