People have long thought that the divorce rate in the United States was approximately 50 percent. That is to say, around half of all marriages end in divorce. Florida readers may also assume that this statistic is correct, but truly understanding the divorce rate and the factors that play a role in divorce requires a deeper look.
If you are considering divorce or you are preparing to marry, it may be helpful to look at divorce rates and prepare yourself to protect your interests. Unlike what you have heard, the rate that marriages end in the U.S. may not actually be 50 percent. While the actual number of divorces has little to do with the outcome of your specific relationship, it is interesting to consider the rates of divorce in various demographics and age groups.
What determines the divorce rate?
The numbers and statistics most often cited when quoting the divorce rate are not quite accurate. First of all, they do not represent divorce information from all 50 states, and states report these numbers in different ways. Because of the discrepancies, it is difficult to get an accurate grasp on an actual number. Consider the following facts:
- One of the biggest elements in thinking about the divorce rate is the significantly high rate of divorce in the Baby Boomer generation.
- The divorce rate is lower along 20 to 45-year-old couples than it is among couples over the age of 45.
- More people are choosing to divorce later in life due to longer life expectancy, and more people are getting married later in life.
- For younger people, many prefer to wait to marry until after they have financial security.
- Culture’s overall perspective on marriage has seen significant changes, which could affect the rate at which people marry or divorce.
You may be wondering about the divorce rate because you want to know how likely it is that your marriage will end. However, it is not that simple. Issues such as finances, the age at which you got married and having kids are more reliable factors to consider.
Is divorce in your future?
If you believe that divorce is a possibility in your situation, you will find it beneficial to think about how you can protect your interests. Unlike statistics and divorce rates, ending a marriage is a deeply personal and potentially complex process. The choices you make now will impact your future, but you do not have to walk through this process alone. You may find it beneficial to turn to an experienced family law attorney for help.
