Marriage in America: Signs of a Remarkable Comeback

Recent research suggests a turning tide for marriage in America, indicating that despite decades of declining rates, matrimony may be positioned for a revival. Notable sociologist Brad Wilcox highlights in his recent piece for The Atlantic that reports of marriage's demise have been greatly exaggerated.

The Positive Shift in Family Structure

According to Wilcox, the last few years have shown encouraging trends. Divorce rates, which had been a significant concern since the early 1980s, have decreased by nearly 40%, with a considerable improvement occurring in the past 15 years. This decline is accompanied by an increase in the number of children living with two married parents, a sign that family structures are stabilizing once more.

A Brighter Future for Children

The implications of these trends extend far beyond statistics. Children raised in intact, married households are significantly more likely to succeed academically and socially. As economist Melissa Kearney points out, evidence overwhelmingly shows that children thriving in a two-parent home experience better outcomes in behavioral health and educational attainment. This makes the resurgence of marriage not just a personal milestone but a societal benefit.

Celebrating the Recent Gains

With the share of children living in married-parent families rising from 64% in 2012 to an estimated 66% in 2024, and the proportion of Black children in such families increasing from 33% to 39%, the data reflects a growing recognition of the benefits of marriage. Celebrating these positive changes can encourage more families to consider the advantages of marriage, fostering a culture that values commitment and stability.

As these trends continue to evolve, it becomes increasingly clear that the phenomenon of marriage is not only surviving but may indeed be shaping a more hopeful future for American families. The evidence suggests that while we have observed challenges, there are now significant reasons to be optimistic about the state of marriage in America.