Thursday, May 26, 2011

Some New Divorce Stats:


We all know all too well that close to half of all marriages end in divorce. But do you know some of the new statistics which shed more light as to the underlying reasons as to why divorce occurs?

From 2005 through 2009 the demographics concerning divorced individuals were as follows:

According to the Census Bureau, approximately 10.8 percent of “white” people described themselves as having been divorced while the numbers were 11.5% for “black or African-American” people, and 12.6% for “American Indian and Alaska Native” people.  Those groups making up poorer socio-economic classifications are clearly affected by divorce more than other groups. The factors which statistically increase the likelihood of divorce include low income, receipt of public assistance, young age, less education, having children, and unemployment.

It seems clear than financial difficulties can cause marital discord which may lead to a divorce. Poorer people often are less educated, which is another factor for divorce. Those who did not finish college are 16% to 19% more likely to be recently divorced. These trends can create a “catch-22” or “vicious cycle”, as divorce can, in turn, result in poverty. Divorcees, and especially women, often find themselves falling into poverty once they no longer possess the financial stability often found within the confines of a marital relationship. Census data shows, women living below the poverty line are 94% more likely to be recently divorced compared to other women. Women who receive government assistance are 69% more likely to be recently divorced.