Marriage has been a cornerstone of society for centuries, but it’s no secret that the institution has been undergoing a significant transformation in recent years. With rising divorce rates… many are beginning to question the relevance and viability of traditional marriage.
There is little exposure to this taboo topic and why it’s on the increase, but the impact on individuals and children can last generations and alter humanity’s path forward.
So, what is the current divorce rate in the world?
According to the United Nations, the global divorce rate stands at around 39%. This means that nearly four out of every ten marriages will end in divorce. The rate has been steadily increasing over the last couple of decades, with some countries experiencing particularly sharp spikes in divorce rates.
But why do people get a divorce? The reasons are varied and complex, but some of the most common causes include infidelity, financial disagreements, and fundamental differences in values or lifestyle. In many cases, these issues can be resolved through counselling or therapy. However, in some cases, the differences are irreconcilable, and divorce becomes the best option.
One factor contributing to the rising divorce rate is the empowerment of individuals. In the past, people often stayed in unhappy marriages because they felt they had no other options. Today, people are more likely to leave an unhappy marriage and pursue a happier life. This is especially true for women, who are now more likely to have their own income and the ability to support themselves independently.
Remember relatively recent phenomena like social media and Covid.
Social media exaggerates how much we compare ourselves and our relationships to the social masks that others exhibit. We are constantly bombarded with these posts of perfection, causing us to question our own situations. This reduces our tolerance and our ability to work through things. These mirages of perfection and overexposure can be dangerous. It can create a false perspective and encourage instant gratification.
Covid, on the other end of the spectrum, caused people to get too familiar with each other (because they were trapped in their houses). Reducing the excitement and uncertainty that every relationship requires. It would have also caused individuals to frequent social media platforms, further enabling the pursuit of perfectionism.
It’s important to note that divorce is not always the best option. While some relationships are unhealthy and need to end, others may be going through a rough patch that can be worked through with patience, communication, and professional support.
It can be challenging to know when to fight through contention and fundamental disagreements and when to let go and end the relationship.
There’s no easy answer to this question, but there are some signs that a marriage may be beyond repair. These signs may include a lack of emotional or physical intimacy, ongoing infidelity, or chronic substance abuse. In these cases, it may be better for both parties to end the marriage and pursue happiness separately. One should never shrink themselves to fit those that they’ve outgrown. That is a sure path to an unfulfilling and miserable life.
Ultimately, the decision to divorce is a deeply personal one that depends on many factors, including the nature of the relationship, the severity of the issues, and the desires and needs of each individual. While divorce rates may continue to rise, it’s important to remember that every relationship is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to marriage problems.
The divorce pandemic is a complex issue that requires careful consideration and thoughtful reflection. While divorce rates may be rising, it’s important to remember that divorce is not always the best option and that fighting through contention and fundamental disagreements can be a worthwhile Endeavor. At the same time, it’s essential to empower individuals to pursue happiness and fulfilment, even if that means letting go of an unhappy marriage.