New Research Sheds Light on Divorce Rate in U.S.

 Posted on December 00, 0000 in Chicago divorce attorney

The bulk of research dedicated to determining the prevalence of divorce in this country has discussed a downward trend since the 1980’s. New research indicates, however, that broad generalizations like that don’t get into the heart of more specific aspects of divorce.

Researchers from the University of Minnesota recently took advantage of refined U.S. Census data about divorce to determine just how reliable claims about a declining divorce rate are. According to the study authors, the divorce rate has actually remained relatively steadily since 1980. The determining factor for the divorce rate turned out to be age. When controlling for age, researchers found out that the divorce rate has actually increased by as much as 40 percent since that time.

Divorce rates across age groups are not the same, according to the findings in this study. Back in 1970, there was very little difference between divorce rates for younger and older individuals, but that quickly chances. Baby boomers account for most of the increases in divorce rates. In fact, study authors believe that baby boomers are primarily responsible for “marital instability” that occurred after 1970. This same subset of individuals had higher divorce rates in their 20s and 30s, too, but they still make up a significant portion of divorcing couples.

Another interesting discovery from the research is that in comparison, marital stability for younger couples seems to be stronger. Waiting to get married and higher rates of cohabitation before marriage are believed to be two of the factors increasing marital stability for this younger subset.

Even if you feel that getting divorced is the right thing to do, it’s a complex decision. Going through the divorce planning process can be extremely helpful for getting your questions answered and preparing you for what to expect. Contact an Illinois family attorney today.