For Better or . . . Not

Abstract

This chapter examines the role marriage plays in the life planning and behavior of emerging adults. Most emerging adults hold marriage in positive regard and plan to get married at some point. As emerging adults age, however, finances, career development, education, and job availability lead them to flexibly shift their “marital horizons” and become more open to marital alternatives, such as remaining single or cohabitating. Emerging adults are getting married later and are also remaining single in increasing numbers. Although the dominant cultural model of marriage is one that promotes individual growth and self-actualization, there is an emerging class divide. Partners are expecting more from marriage while investing less time in their partners. New models for marital behavior and expectations may be needed to address why some marriages are more satisfying than ever before, while a great number are falling short, encumbered by individual, cultural, and structural considerations.