4 Divorce Trends That Might Surprise You

It’s not likely that couples think of divorce when they get married. Unfortunately, however, nearly 50% of marriages in the United States end up there. The divorce rates have been high in the United States for decades, but some of the thoughts we hear about divorce trends might have become antiquated. Here are four current facts about divorces.

1. The divorce rate in the United States is decreasing.

While the statistics are still staggering on the number of marriages that end in divorce, the numbers are decreasing. Some might argue that it’s not entirely that the divorce rates are decreasing but that fewer people are getting married.

2. The largest population getting divorced is over 50.

Studies have shown that the 90s ushered in a period of divorce increases for those over 50. Some would say that this was an obvious trajectory with the sheer size of the baby boomer generation. Additionally, statistics are showing that people are marrying later in age which would lead to older divorcees.

3. Women are leading the divorce filings.

Statistics show that almost 70% of divorces are initiated by women. There have been many studies done to show why this trend continues. There is evidence of things like child custody and spousal abuse leading women to file sooner than men. Additionally, women are far more likely to file for divorce if they are financially independent.

4. Even where you live could lead to a divorce.

Many are aware that things like age, education and finances lead to divorce. One factor that you might not consider is residency. Studies show that those living on the west coast have higher divorce rates than those on the east coast.

While divorce is never in your mind when you get married, it happens and it’s important to know you aren’t alone.