What makes for a great marriage? I’m sure the usual suspects of commitment, respect, shared values, mutual attraction, and love are still the major ingredients that blend together to create a great love story. But without regard for the quality of the union, what makes for a marriage that lasts?
A recent Barna Group study (March 31, 2008) indicates:
* 78% of U.S. adults have been married at least once and 33% of those have been divorced at least once
* 84% of born-again Christian adults have tied the knot
* 74% of people aligned with non-Christian faiths
* 65% of atheists and agnostics
Who has the highest divorce rates?
* 39% of downscale adults
* 38% of Baby Boomers
* 38% of those aligned with a non-Christian faith
* 36% of African-Americans
* 37% of people who define themselves to be socially and politically liberal
The lowest likelihood of divorce?
* 28% of Catholics
* 26% of Evangelicals
* 22% of upscale adults
* 28% of those who deem themselves socially and politically conservative
The difference between those most likely and least likely to divorce is 17 points and a 45% swing, which is significant. But without running cross-tabulations and looking at these numbers over time it’s impossible to draw any empirical conclusions.
But that’s never stopped me before!
My modest suggestion for giving your marriage a stimulus package is more focus on your career and your faith – and strongly consider voting Republican in the next election.
