Divorce in America: What the Statistics Tell Us...and Why They Don't Matter
Aug 25, 2023
Divorce is a complex and emotionally trying process that can be very draining for both parties involved. It’s no surprise that couples are often reluctant to dissolve their marriages. It is a difficult decision to decide to end a marriage. And yet, many couples in the United States are still choosing to undo the "I do". Let’s take a closer look at the numbers.
Divorce Rates Vary By Country
The divorce rate varies significantly by country. According to the United Nations Statistics Division, the highest reported rate of divorce was in Belarus (3.6 divorces per 1,000 inhabitants) while the lowest was in Chile (0.4 divorces per 1,000 inhabitants). The United States has a relatively high rate of divorce compared to other countries; it is estimated that approximately 3.2 divorces occur for every 1,000 people in America each year. Other countries with higher than average rates of divorce are Russia (4.1), Estonia (3.7), and Latvia (3.5).
Out of the 195 countries in the world, the United States has one of the highest divorce rates: 40 to 50% of marriages are estimated to end in divorce by 2022. On average, these marriages last around 8 years and have an average age of 45.8 when they come to an end.
Divorce Rates Vary By Age Group
Divorce rates also vary by age group; those aged 25-39 have the highest rate of divorce out of any age group, according to a survey conducted by the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at Alliant International University in San Francisco, which found that 42% of those surveyed were divorced or had been married multiple times before they were 39 years old. Additionally, research conducted by Ohio State University found that couples who married between ages 20-24 experienced significantly higher rates of divorce than those who married after 24 years old; 59% of those surveyed who married between ages 18-20 experienced a divorce, while only 33% of those surveyed who married after 24 years old experienced a divorce. This suggests that couples who wait until their mid 20's before getting married may reduce their chances of experiencing separation or dissolution later in life.
Studies suggest that lack of commitment, infidelity, and incessant arguing are some of the most common reasons for divorce - particularly with couples who cite incessant arguing as their leading cause, at nearly 60%. Additionally, Baby Boomers tend to have a higher rate than other generations, and women more often initiate break-ups than men (69% of the time).
Effects On Children Matter!
Divorce can have lasting effects on children; research suggests that children whose parents are divorced may suffer from anxiety and depression more often than children whose parents remain together throughout their upbringing. Additionally, research conducted by University College London found that children whose parents are divorced may struggle academically since they tend to perform lower on tests measuring cognitive ability and academic performance than children whose parents remain together throughout their childhoods; however, there are many factors beyond just whether or not parents get divorced which can impact a child’s academic success such as socio-economic status and family dynamics within households for example so it’s important to keep these things in mind when looking at these statistics as well!
Numbers Don't Matter
Divorce is a difficult challenge that can bring up a range of emotions for the spouses and the children. Data on divorce can be helpful for research and society. When it comes to individuals going through this process, it's their personal experience that matters most. This is especially true for the children of divorce who are often the unintended "victims" of their parents' divorce.
No matter the length of the marriage or why it ended, divorce is an individual experience that requires support and comprehensive preparation. Preparing yourself enables you to better escort your children and yourself to the next chapter waiting for you.
iRise For Me assists those going through this process, helping them to understand and navigate the complexities of the experience. These can be physical, environmental, psychological, and emotional challenges.
I can.
I am.
I will.
iRise.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/marriage-divorce.htm
https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/divorce-rate-by-state
https://www.statista.com/statistics/207238/divorce-rate-in-virginia/