Marital instability

Marriage breakdown
Estrangement in marriage
Broken marriages
Broken homes

Nature

The term "marital breakdown" covers divorce, separation and desertion as well as estrangement and the continuation of living together though without marital relations. The result is severe emotional stress in both spouses and in the children of the marriage. Divorce, desertion and separation may result in poverty and adjustment problems.

Background

Marital instability emerged as a recognized global concern in the mid-20th century, as rising divorce rates and changing family structures drew scholarly and policy attention. Early demographic studies in North America and Europe highlighted its prevalence, prompting international comparisons and longitudinal research. By the late 20th century, marital instability was increasingly linked to social, economic, and psychological outcomes, leading to its inclusion in global health and social policy discussions.

Incidence

Marriage breakdown in the sense of estrangement and living together is not usually recorded, though it may be more extensive than the incidence of divorce and separation. Desertion, except where it is given as a reason for divorce, is also not usually recorded. The incidence of divorce is highest in industrialized and communist countries.

In 1996 it was recorded that in Japan there are about 24 divorces for every 100 marriages, in France there are 32 per 100, in the UK 42, and in the USA 55. The number of registered marriages in the UK dropped from 436,346 in 1974 to 375,410 in 1990 and was estimated to be continuing to drop at the rate of 7% per year. Divorces increased from 25,000 in 1961 to 153,386 in 1990, with nearly 50% of marriages ending in divorce in 1991. The number of births outside marriage rose from 54,000 in 1961 to 236,000 in 1991, whilst births inside marriage fell from 890,000 to 556,000.

Claim

Marital instability is a critical problem that threatens the very foundation of society. Its ripple effects—broken families, emotional trauma for children, and increased mental health issues—cannot be ignored. Ignoring marital instability means turning a blind eye to the root causes of social dysfunction and economic hardship. We must address this issue urgently, as stable marriages are essential for nurturing healthy individuals and building resilient communities. The stakes are simply too high for complacency.

Counter-claim

Marital instability is vastly overblown as a societal concern. People have the right to pursue happiness, whether that means staying married or not. Relationships naturally evolve, and ending an unhappy marriage is often healthier than forcing stability. Society should focus on genuine issues like poverty or healthcare, not obsess over whether couples stay together. Marital instability is simply a reflection of personal freedom, not a crisis demanding urgent attention.