pros and cons of marriage essay

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The Pros and Cons of Marriage: Is It Worth It?

Exploring the benefits and drawbacks of tying the knot.

Marriage is a significant life decision that many people contemplate at some point. It is a commitment to spend your life with another person, sharing both the joys and challenges that come with it. Before taking the leap, it's important to consider the advantages and disadvantages that come with marriage.

In this article, we'll delve into the various aspects of marriage, exploring the benefits and drawbacks to give you a comprehensive understanding of what it entails. Whether you're currently considering marriage or simply interested in learning more, understanding both the pros and cons is crucial to making an informed decision.

Marriage offers numerous advantages that can positively impact your life in various ways. From emotional support to financial stability, the benefits of tying the knot are vast and significant. Let's explore some of the unexpected advantages of marriage.

Missing a pro?

While marriage has its benefits, it also comes with its fair share of challenges. From compromises to conflicts, it's important to consider the potential drawbacks before making a lifelong commitment. Let's take a closer look at some of the common disadvantages of marriage.

Missing a con?

Marriage, like any significant life decision, comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. While the emotional support and companionship of marriage can be deeply fulfilling, the challenges of compromise and conflicts cannot be overlooked. It's essential for individuals to weigh their own priorities and values before embarking on this lifelong commitment.

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#PROSVSCONS

Marriage vs. the Single Life: Who Has It Better?

Is it better to stay single or get married.

Posted December 30, 2016 | Reviewed by Jessica Schrader

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Does getting married make you happier, healthier, more integrated into society, and better off in all sorts of other physical, emotional, and interpersonal ways? I’ve spent close to two decades making the case that those kinds of claims are grossly exaggerated or just plain wrong. Plus, there are important ways in which lifelong single people do better than people who get married. But I don’t think there is a simple, one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether it is better to stay single or get married. Let me explain.

What the Research Really Shows

The kinds of studies and comparisons used to support the claim that Marriage Wins just don’t pass scientific muster. They are biased in ways that make married people seem to be doing better than they really are, and single people worse (as explained in more detail here and here and here ). Used as the basis for claiming that getting married benefits people psychologically, the comparisons are scientifically indefensible.

What’s more, even with that big, fat advantage built right into the research, sometimes it is the lifelong single people, rather than the currently married people, who are doing the best. In some studies, including a few based on large, representative national samples, it is the single people who are healthiest. If you follow people over time as they go from being single to getting married and staying married, they end up no happier than they were when they were single . Those who get married and then divorce end up, on the average, less happy than they were when they were single. Getting married is no royal road to longevity , either.

Lifelong single people do better than married people in a variety of ways that don’t get all that much attention . For example, they do more to maintain their ties to friends, siblings, parents, neighbors, and coworkers than married people do. They do more than their share of volunteering and helping people, such as aging parents, who need a lot of help. They experience more autonomy and self-determination, and more personal growth and development .

But It’s Not a Contest: No One Side is the Winner

Ever since I gave an address at the American Psychological Association in August, making the points I just summarized, celebratory headlines have multiplied. Some claim that single people are happier or that they live richer, more meaningful lives. After decades of seeing nothing but Marriage Wins headlines, one would think I should take some pleasure in this whole new sensibility.

The problem, though, is that I’m not actually saying that Singles Win. Yes, it is true that there are some profoundly important ways in which single people are doing better than married people. And those ways in which we are so sure that married people are doing better—well, often they don’t really hold up to scientific scrutiny.

Even so, there are several reasons you should be skeptical, regardless of whether you are being told that marriage wins or single life wins:

• All of the findings you read about are averages. They tell you about what generally happens, but there are always exceptions. The results do not apply equally to everyone.
• The married people and the single people are different people . Suppose a study seemed to show that the people who got married were doing better in some way. Remember, the people who got married chose to do so. If you badgered single people into getting married – especially people who are “ single at heart ” and embrace their single lives – they might not experience the same benefit. To paraphrase one of my favorite cartoons: If I got married, I wouldn’t live longer – it would just seem longer.
• What is most likely to be true is that some people live their best lives by marrying, whereas others live their best, most authentic, most meaningful and fulfilling lives by living single.
• Maybe it is even more complicated than that. Maybe, for some of us, single life is best during certain times in our life, while coupled or married life is better at other times. For example, I’ve talked to widowed people who had very good marriages and have no regrets about the years they spent married, but now that they are single, they embrace that life and never want to marry again.

Something else is important, too: We have a better chance to live our best lives if we are not impoverished or disadvantaged in other significant ways. That’s true for everyone—married, single, or something in between—but I think it is especially true for single people.

In the U.S., for example, people who are officially married are more likely to be protected economically. This happens not just for the obvious reasons that they have a second person who perhaps could support them in the event of a job loss or a decrease in income; and that, when couples are sharing a place and singles are not, the couples benefit from “economies of scale” because they split the rent or mortgage, the utilities, and all the other household expenses. Married people are also gifted with more than 1,000 federal benefits and protections , many of them financial.

Marriage, in contemporary American society, also bestows couples with a whole array of unearned privileges , social, psychological, emotional, political, and cultural. In countless ways that we sometimes don’t even notice, married people’s lives are valued and celebrated while single people’s lives are marginalized or even mocked.

That means that when single people achieve the same level of health or well-being as married people, they do so against greater odds. I think that suggests that single people have an impressive level of resilience —an admirable quality that is rarely recognized or acknowledged.

DePaulo, B. (2006). Singled out: How singles are stereotyped, stigmatized, and ignored, and still live happily ever after . New York: St. Martin’s Press.

DePaulo, B. (2015b). Marriage vs. single life: How science and the media got it so wrong .

Laditka, James N., & Laditka, Sarah B. (2001). Adult children helping older parents: Variations in likelihood and hours by gender, race, and family role. Research on Aging, 23 , 429-256.

Sarkisian, N., & Gerstel, N. (2016). Does singlehood isolate or integrate? Examining the link between marital status and ties to kin, friends, and neighbors. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships , 33 , 361-384.

Bella DePaulo, Ph.D. , an expert on single people, is the author of Single at Heart and other books. She is an Academic Affiliate in Psychological & Brain Sciences, UCSB.

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The Healthy Marriage

Build a Better Marriage One Step at a Time

7 Advantages and Disadvantages of Marrying Later In Life

March 28, 2022 By Editorial Staff - Reviewed by Joseph Nolan

Every marriage (no matter the age group) has challenges and benefits. Yet, there are several unique advantages and disadvantages of marrying later in life. In this article, we explore those issues.

This article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of marrying later in life. It notes that while there are some benefits to waiting to get married, there are also some drawbacks. The pros and cons are weighed against each other to help readers make a decision about whether or not to marry later in life.

This post contains some affiliate links to products that I use and love. If you click through and make a purchase, I’ll earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. Read my full disclosure  here .

According to a Brookings report on The Hamilton Project, fewer people are married today than at any time in the last fifty years.

This is ironic because Harvard University did a study that indicated married men are happier and healthier than unmarried men or divorced men.

Many indicate the reason is millennials are waiting later to marry and are living at home longer. Other studies show that marriage is viewed differently than it was in previous generations.

One study stated that delayed marriages are actually on the rise .

Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of late marriage.

In This Article

What Are The Benefits Of Marrying Later In Life 

There are many benefits to marrying later in life, including:

•  1. More life experience.

Couples who marry later in life t end to have more life experience than those who marry young. This can be beneficial in terms of greater maturity, greater financial stability, and a more realistic view of marriage.

•  2. More time to get to know each other

Because couples who marry later in life have usually known each other for longer, they often have a better understanding of each other’s likes, dislikes, and quirks. This can lead to a stronger, more lasting relationship.

•  3. Greater relationship satisfaction

Studies have shown that couples who marry later in life tend to be more satisfied with their relationship than those who marry young. This may be due to the fact that they have had more time to develop a strong relationship foundation.

•  4. Less pressure

There is often less pressure to marry later in life. This can be beneficial in terms of reducing stress and allowing couples to focus on other aspects of their relationship.

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•  5. Avoid Pitfalls

Couples who marry later in life can often avoid some of the pitfalls that young couples may face, such as divorce.

Couples who marry later in life can often enjoy a more fulfilling and satisfying relationship because they are wiser about the struggles, pitfalls, and problems that hurt many marriages.

•  6. Healthier Expectations

Couples who marry later in life tend to have more realistic expectations about marriage . This can lead to greater satisfaction with the relationship overall.

•  7. Clear Focus

Couples who marry later in life often have more time to focus on their relationship. This can lead to a stronger bond and a more lasting relationship.

Also Read: Marrying Later In Life: Advice For A Fulfilling Relationship

Disadvantages Of Marrying Later In Life

Marrying later in life can have its drawbacks. You may have established your career and be set in your ways. You may also have had more time to date around and be pickier. Some research suggests that couples who marry later in life are more likely to divorce.

Here are some disadvantages of marrying later in life that you should consider.

• 1. Established Routines Are Hard To Break

Marrying later in life can be difficult because you may have already established your own independent life and routine .

It can be hard to change your routine to accommodate a new spouse, especially if you have been used to living on your own for a long time. There may also be a generation gap if you marry someone who is significantly younger or older than you. You may have different interests and goals, which can make it difficult to find common ground.

If you are used to being single, you may also find it hard to adjust to sharing your life with someone else. It can be a big change to go from being independent to being part of a couple. You may have to compromise on things that you are used to doing your own way.

Marrying later in life can be a challenge, but it can also be rewarding. If you are able to overcome the obstacles, you can build a strong and lasting relationship with your spouse.

• 2. There May Be Too Much Baggage

Marrying later in life can cause problems because you may have more baggage, such as ex-partners, children from previous relationships, or financial obligations . All of these things can make it difficult to build a strong, lasting relationship with your new partner. It’s important to be honest with each other about your past and to make sure you’re on the same page about your future before you get married.

Although we all have some baggage, we often don’t think about it when we’re younger and getting married for the first time.

But when you’re older and have been through a few relationships, it’s important to have a serious discussion about your past with your new partner. You need to be honest about any ex-partners, children, and financial obligations you may have. If you’re not on the same page about these things, it can cause problems in your new relationship.

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It’s also important to think about your future together.

• Do you want to have children?
• Do you want to retire together?
• What are your financial goals?

Talking about these things before you get married can help you avoid problems down the road.

Marrying later in life can be wonderful, but it’s important to be honest with each other and to make sure you’re on the same page about your past and your future.

• 3. You May Be Set In Your Ways

Marrying later in life can be difficult because you may be set in your ways and find it difficult to compromise or make adjustments for your partner. This can cause problems because your partner may want to do things differently than you are used to, or they may not be used to your way of doing things. It is important to remember that marriage is a partnership, and you will need to be willing to work together to make it successful. If you are not willing to compromise, it may be best to wait until you are both on the same page before getting married.

Compromise is a key to making any marriage work. Especially if you’re marrying later in life, when both partners may have already developed strong opinions and habits. If you’re unwilling to budge on your own views and preferences or to make room for your partner’s, it’s likely that marriage will be more difficult than it needs to be.

Of course, there are some advantages to marrying later in life. You may be more confident in your decision to marry, and you may have a better sense of who you are and what you want in a partner. But, if you’re not willing to compromise, you may find that your marriage doesn’t last as long as you’d hoped.

For more information on this topic, check out our series on how to deal with past baggage.

• 4. The Energy Factor

Aging can have its challenges, especially when it comes to keeping the spark alive. As we age, we may have less energy and stamina, which can make it more difficult to keep things exciting. However, there are ways to overcome this. If you communicate with your partner and keep an open mind, you can keep the fire burning no matter what your age.

Here are a few ways loss of energy could affect your marriage:

1) You may not be able to keep up with your partner sexually.

As we age, our sex drive can decrease. This can be a problem if your partner has a higher sex drive than you do. If you’re not able to keep up with your partner sexually, it can create tension and resentment.

2) You may not be able to do the things you used to do together.

If you’re used to being active together but can no longer do the same things, it can be hard to find things to do together that you both enjoy. This can lead to feelings of boredom and resentment.

3) You may not have the same level of energy for other activities.

As we age, we often have less energy for activities we used to enjoy, like going out with friends or taking part in hobbies. This can lead to feeling isolated and bored.

4) You may find it harder to connect emotionally with your partner.

As we age, we often become set in our ways and can be less flexible emotionally. This can make it hard to connect with your partner on a deep level, which can lead to feeling disconnected and lonely.

If you’re married and finding that the spark is fading, or you desire a deeper emotional connection , it’s important to communicate with your partner. Talk about your concerns and see if there are ways you can work together to keep the spark alive. With a little effort, you can keep the fire burning no matter what your age.

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• 5. The Time Factor

Marrying later in life can have its pros and cons. On one hand, you may have already established your career and be in a better financial position to support a family. On the other hand, you may have less time to enjoy your relationship before other commitments, such as work or caring for aging parents, take precedence.

If you’re considering marrying later in life, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons to see if it’s the right decision for you.

Here are a few pros and cons:

• You’re more likely to be in a better financial position to support a family.
• You may have already established your career and have more stability.
• You may have a better understanding of what you want in a partner.
• You may have less time to enjoy your relationship before other commitments take precedence.
• You may have more baggage from previous relationships.
• Your family and friends may not be as supportive since they’re used to you being single.

With that in mind, only you can decide if marrying later in life is the right decision for you. If you do decide to go down that path, make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons and that you’re prepared for the challenges that come with it.

• 6. Health Issues

As we age, our bodies go through changes that can impact our health and well-being. For some people, this means that they may not be able to do the things they once could, or they may need more help with everyday tasks. This can be a problem when marrying later in life, as your partner may not be prepared to take on this additional responsibility.

It’s important to be honest with yourself and your partner about your health and what you are able to do. If you are both on the same page, it can help to make the transition easier. However, if there is a disconnect, it can put a strain on the relationship.

Marrying later in life can also be difficult because you may not have the same support system as someone who is marrying younger. Your friends and family may not be as available to help out, and you may not have the same network of people to rely on. This can make it more challenging to maintain a healthy and happy relationship.

If you are considering marrying later in life, it’s important to be aware of the challenges that you may face. By being honest with yourself and your partner, and by building a strong support system, you can help to overcome these obstacles.

• 7. Goal Conflicts

Late marriage can present some unique challenges that couples may not face when they tie the knot at a younger age.

For starters, you and your partner may have different ideas about what you want from life , which can lead to conflict. Perhaps one of you wants to travel the world while the other is content with staying closer to home. Or maybe one of you is looking to start a family right away while the other wants to wait a few years. Whatever the case may be, it’s important to talk about your expectations and desires early on to avoid any misunderstandings down the road.

Another potential issue that couples who marry later in life may face is that they may have already established their own independent lives. This can make it difficult to suddenly start sharing everything, from your finances to your living space. You may need to make some adjustments in order to make your new marriage work.

Of course, there are also some advantages to marrying later in life. For one, you’re likely to have a better sense of who you are and what you want, which can make for a stronger marriage. You may also be more financially stable and have more life experience, which can be helpful in navigating any challenges that come your way.

Whatever your reasons for marrying later in life, just be sure to go into it with your eyes wide open. It’s not always easy, but it can definitely be worth it.

Also Read: The Marriage Wheel: How To Set Healthy Relationship Priorities

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Final Thoughts On Advantages and Disadvantages of Marrying Later In Life

Marrying later in life comes with both advantages and disadvantages. On the plus side, couples usually have a better understanding of what they want in a partner and are more likely to have established careers. This can lead to a more stable and happier marriage. On the downside, couples may have less time to enjoy their marriage and start a family.

There is also the potential for more conflict , as couples may have different ideas about what they want from life.

In this article, we discussed seven advantages and seven disadvantages of late marriage.

What’s Next?

Where to find help, we have resources available to help you create the marriage you desire and deserve..

The Healthy Marriage Quiz If you want specific help for your marriage, or you want to know your healthy marriage score, take the marriage quiz. You’ll get immediate access with suggestions on how to improve your relationship.

Five Simple Steps Marriage Course Marriage doesn’t have to be complicated. In this 5 part mini-series, you’ll discover practical steps to redesign your marriage.

Marriage Communication Bootcamp Communication issues do not have to wreck your relationship. Our communication bootcamp will equip you to connect on a deeper level and cultivate skills to help you relate more effectively.

The Healthy Marriage Toolkit Books, Courses, Programs, and Tools designed to help you create the marriage of your dreams.

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If you are having serious marriage struggles, we recommend starting with  ‘ Save the Marriage System ‘ by Lee Baucom.

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[…] Our goal in this article is not to discourage you from marrying, but to make you aware of the unique challenges of marrying when you are older. […]

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The PROS vs CONS of Marriage

Lesson introduction.

The lesson discusses the evolving perspectives on marriage, highlighting a decline in interest among young men while young women’s appreciation for marriage has increased. It traces the historical significance of marriage from a survival mechanism to a symbol of social status, and examines modern views that question its relevance due to rising marriage ages, high divorce rates, and alternative family structures. Ultimately, the lesson emphasizes the importance of individual goals and priorities in making informed decisions about marriage and family life.

Lesson Article

The changing views on marriage.

In recent years, fewer men are interested in getting married. According to a study by the Pew Research Institute, the percentage of men aged 18 to 34 who see a successful marriage as a top priority has decreased from 35% in 1997 to 29%. Meanwhile, more young women now consider marriage important, with numbers rising from 28% to 37% over the same period. This shift raises questions about why many men are choosing to avoid marriage.

The Evolution of Marriage

Historically, marriage wasn’t always a part of human life. Early humans, much like bonobos, likely had multiple partners and lived in communities where resources were shared. As human societies evolved, forming stable family units became crucial for survival, especially from about 1.8 million to 23,000 years ago. During this time, children raised by two parents had better chances of survival, leading to the earliest forms of marriage.

With the development of agriculture, people settled in one place, making long-term partnerships more beneficial for raising children. Over time, marriage became a legal contract, primarily to ensure the well-being of offspring. As societies advanced, marriage shifted from a survival mechanism to a symbol of power, wealth, and social status. Arranged marriages were common until the mid-20th century.

Modern Perspectives on Marriage

Today, marriage is viewed differently. The average age of marriage has risen significantly. In the 1960s, over half of Americans under 30 were married, but now only 20% are. This change has led some to see marriage as an outdated institution.

Pros of Modern Marriage

• Marriage can represent commitment and love.
• There are legal, financial, social, and health benefits to being married.
• Married couples often enjoy tax benefits, estate planning advantages, and access to health insurance through a spouse’s employer.
• Research indicates that married individuals tend to live longer and have better health outcomes.

Cons of Modern Marriage

• Weddings can be costly, averaging around $30,000, which can lead to debt.
• The high divorce rate, about 50% in the U.S., raises questions about the value of marriage.
• Many Millennials grew up in single-parent or divorced households, affecting their views on marriage.
• Traditional roles in marriage have evolved, with many women now financially independent and not necessarily seeking traditional partnerships.

Alternative Family Structures

Despite declining marriage rates, both men and women still value parenting. Many Millennials believe they can have families without being married, choosing alternatives like domestic partnerships or civil unions.

Ultimately, it’s important to consider your own goals and priorities. If marriage doesn’t fit your aspirations, that’s perfectly fine. Understanding the history and current trends can help you make informed decisions about your future.

Lesson Vocabulary

Marriage – A legally and socially sanctioned union, typically between a man and a woman, that is regulated by laws, rules, customs, beliefs, and attitudes that prescribe the rights and duties of the partners. – Marriage is often considered a cornerstone of society, providing a stable environment for raising children.

Evolution – The gradual development of societies and cultures over time, often leading to changes in social norms and institutions. – The evolution of gender roles has significantly impacted family structures and workplace dynamics.

Perspectives – Different ways of viewing and understanding social phenomena, influenced by cultural, historical, and individual factors. – Sociologists study various perspectives to understand how different groups perceive social issues like inequality.

Commitment – A pledge or obligation to engage in a long-term relationship or endeavor, often requiring dedication and responsibility. – Commitment in a relationship is crucial for building trust and ensuring mutual support between partners.

Benefits – Advantages or positive outcomes that individuals or groups receive from social structures or policies. – Social welfare programs provide benefits to support low-income families and reduce poverty levels.

Divorce – The legal dissolution of a marriage by a court or other competent body, often resulting in changes to family dynamics and living arrangements. – The rising divorce rates have prompted discussions about the changing nature of marriage in modern society.

Households – Units of people living together in a domestic setting, sharing living space and resources, which can include families, roommates, or individuals. – The census data showed an increase in single-person households, reflecting changing social trends.

Parenting – The process of raising and educating a child from birth until adulthood, encompassing various styles and practices influenced by cultural and societal norms. – Effective parenting involves providing emotional support and setting boundaries to guide children’s development.

Partnerships – Collaborative relationships between individuals or groups that work together towards common goals, often seen in both personal and professional contexts. – Partnerships between schools and communities can enhance educational opportunities for students.

Trends – General directions in which something is developing or changing, often observed in social behaviors, attitudes, or cultural practices. – Recent trends in urbanization have led to increased demand for public transportation and housing.

Discussion Questions

• How do you personally view the changing trends in marriage priorities among men and women, and what factors do you think contribute to these shifts?
• Reflecting on the historical evolution of marriage, how do you think societal changes have influenced personal relationships today?
• Considering the pros and cons of modern marriage presented in the article, which aspects resonate most with your own views on marriage?
• How do you perceive the role of financial and legal benefits in the decision to marry, and do these factors influence your perspective on marriage?
• What are your thoughts on the high divorce rate mentioned in the article, and how does it affect your perception of marriage as an institution?
• In what ways do you think alternative family structures, such as domestic partnerships or civil unions, provide viable options for those who choose not to marry?
• Reflect on how your upbringing and family background have shaped your views on marriage and family structures.
• How do you envision your own future in terms of relationships and family, and how do the trends discussed in the article align with your personal goals?

Lesson Activities

Debate on modern marriage.

Engage in a class debate about whether marriage is an outdated institution. Divide into two groups: one supporting the idea that marriage is still relevant today, and the other arguing that it is no longer necessary. Use evidence from the article to support your arguments.

Research Project on Marriage Trends

Conduct a research project on marriage trends over the last century. Focus on how societal changes have influenced views on marriage. Present your findings in a multimedia presentation, incorporating graphs and interviews with different generations.

Role-Playing Historical Marriage Scenarios

Participate in a role-playing activity where you act out marriage scenarios from different historical periods. Consider the social, economic, and cultural factors that influenced marriage during those times. Discuss how these factors compare to today’s views on marriage.

Creative Writing: Future of Marriage

Write a short story or essay imagining what marriage might look like 50 years from now. Consider current trends and how they might evolve. Share your work with the class and discuss the potential implications of these changes.

Panel Discussion on Alternative Family Structures

Organize a panel discussion with classmates about alternative family structures. Explore options like domestic partnerships and civil unions. Discuss the benefits and challenges of these arrangements compared to traditional marriage.

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What are the Pros and Cons of Marriage? What You Need to Know

Marriage is a huge milestone for any couple, as it signifies a lasting commitment to one another — through thick and thin. 

While the ups and downs of marriage are often spoken about, do couples get swept away by the romance and forget to think about the reality? It’s important to weigh up the pros and cons of marriage before you walk down the aisle. 

So, should you follow your head or your heart? From financial to psychological, there are a lot of things to consider and chat through with your partner before you make this lasting commitment. 

What should you think about before you get married? 

We all might like to think that marriage is a decision you make with your heart, but if you’re to have a successful marriage — you can’t leave your head out of it altogether!

While we can all get swept away by our emotions, marriage shouldn’t be a spur-of-the-moment decision. Even though it’s not quite as transformative as some fairytales might make out, it’s a huge commitment that isn’t necessarily for everyone. 

“Marriage is a personal choice that varies greatly in meaning amongst couples,” says  Laura Caruso , a licensed therapist, and relationship expert. 

“Explore what marriage represents to you and whether or not this decision aligns with your vision for your relationship. It’s important to consider long-term compatibility, particularly in the areas of shared values and beliefs, communication, and financial responsibility.”

Talk about these feelings with your potential spouse, so you’re both on the same page about what you want from a future together. 

What are the pros and cons of marriage?

Marriage is a huge commitment, and like any big decision, it requires a lot of careful thought and consideration. 

“Marriage is an expression of profound love and commitment. It’s an opportunity to establish an identity rooted in shared values and traditions and is representative of a willingness to grow as a unit,” says Caruso. 

While there is often a very idealized conception of marriage out in the world, there is no such thing as a perfect marriage. Before you walk down the aisle, every couple should be aware of the difficulties that marriage can bring. 

If you’re unwilling to accept that there will likely be tough times along the way, you may not be ready for the kind of commitment that marriage requires. 

“While marriage can bring many positive aspects such as companionship, emotional support, and shared goals, it’s important to consider the potential downsides,” says Caruso. 

“Marriage often requires compromises and sacrifices, which can sometimes lead to a loss of personal freedom and autonomy. People also change over time, and fundamental differences in personality, lifestyle, or values can lead to persistent conflicts and dissatisfaction. 

Even though marriage isn’t picturebook perfect all the time, knowing that you will have to take the good with the bad is actually for the best. 

“However, being aware of these negative aspects can help couples prepare for and address potential issues, leading to a healthier and more resilient relationship,” says Caruso. 

So, while we can’t write you a personalized pros and cons list for your partner, we can hopefully help you dive into the potential upsides and downsides of marriage. 

Pros of marriage to consider 

Companionship:  Marriage not only offers love, but it also offers the promise of lifelong companionship. When you commit to a marriage, it means you're signing up to have your partner by your side through thick and thin. A best friend and a lover all in one!

Emotional support: When you’re married, you always have your partner to rely on for emotional support. Having a committed partner means you have someone to turn to during tough times, who understands your needs and can offer comfort and encouragement. This emotional support helps in building resilience and can make navigating life's challenges more manageable. 

Mutual growth:  Marriage fosters an environment where both partners can grow together. As partners support each other's ambitions and dreams, they can achieve greater heights together than they might alone. This mutual growth strengthens the bond and creates a shared sense of purpose and achievement.

Shared growth:  Beyond individual growth, marriage facilitates shared growth in terms of building a life together! Shared growth involves learning from each other, adapting to each other's strengths and weaknesses, and evolving together over time.

Family bonding:  When you marry someone, you don’t just gain a partner but you also gain their family as an extension of that. This can open you up to a whole new world of nurturing and fulfilling relationships with your new family! 

Stability: Marriage can offer a sense of stability in life, providing a reliable foundation on which to build a future. While unmarried couples can rely on each other, a marriage certificate can give this an additional level of support and security. 

Shared burden:  When you’re going through something when you’re married, you don’t have to do it alone. It helps to have someone you trust by your side to help you through good times and bad. 

Stable environment for children:  Marriage can provide a stable and nurturing environment for children to grow and thrive. This kind of committed partnership can offer children the benefits of consistency, routine, and a sense of security. 

Cons of marriage to consider 

Compromise:  When you’re married to someone, you can no longer wholly prioritize yourself. Even though you might want to do something, you have to take your partner's needs and wants on board — coming to a healthy compromise that suits you both! If you’re not willing to make these compromises, marriage might not be for you. 

Independence: Marriage involves a high level of compromise and joint decision-making, which can lead to a perceived or actual loss of personal freedom and autonomy. Even though this naturally comes with marriage, it can feel like restricted personal freedom.

Conflict:  Marriage can’t be all rosy all the time, as natural conflicts will arise as romantic relationships go through their ups and downs. Differences in how each partner handles conflict can exacerbate issues, making resolution difficult and potentially leading to ongoing tension. Even though this is normal, it can feel very draining. 

Expectations: Marriage comes with societal and personal expectations that can create pressure on your dynamic. Each partner may have different expectations of what marriage should be, which can lead to misunderstandings and disappointment if those expectations are not communicated and aligned.

Lifestyle adjustments:  Even though there are so many benefits of marriage, merging your lives naturally leads to adjustments and changes that can be stressful. For example, differences in habits and routines, such as sleep schedules, cleanliness standards, and leisure activities, require both partners to compromise. If these changes don’t suit you long-term, it can lead to tensions down the line. 

In-laws:  Even though your extended family will hopefully add so many positives to your life, not all in-laws make it easy. If you’re dealing with a toxic mother-in-law or father-in-law, it can add a lot of strain to the relationship. 

Vulnerability:  Being in a deeply committed relationship means being emotionally vulnerable, which can have its perks but can also feel intense. When you’re married, this level of vulnerability is heightened, which can lead to emotional frustration and potential disagreements. 

Potential for divorce:  High divorce rates can be offputting when considering marriage, as it’s a big commitment with a lot of expectations. Even though we all hope for a happy ever after, the fear of divorce can keep people from walking down the aisle in the first place.

What are the psychological benefits and drawbacks of marriage?

Any intimate relationship requires both partners to be immensely vulnerable and that kind of emotional involvement naturally has a psychological impact. 

Marriage requires couples to open up to each other on an immensely deep and intimate level, putting their trust in one another every step of the way. Being able to rely on someone can feel incredible, as you no longer have to face life's burdens alone. 

This can have a huge positive psychological impact, as your partner can make you feel completely seen, understood, and cherished. This kind of intimacy is every relationship's ultimate goal, with untold benefits for both your physical and mental well-being. 

“Marriage can offer emotional stability, alleviate feelings of loneliness, and provide a sense of belonging. A stable and loving marriage can act as a buffer against life’s stressors, helping you better cope with difficult experiences,” says Caruso. 

If you’re experiencing this kind of love for the first time, it can feel like a weight lifted off your shoulders — with your partner in crime there to catch you when you fall. 

However, if you build up this kind of relationship, and they pull the rug from beneath your feet… The collapse of the relationship can be catastrophic on a psychological and emotional level. 

“Potential drawbacks of marriage include added stress due to disagreements or conflict, which are inevitable in any relationship,” says Caruso. 

“Similarly, poor communication can exacerbate misunderstandings and create ongoing tension. Marital problems can contribute to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and emotional distress.”

Are there any money-related downsides to getting married?

There are so many different aspects of a marriage, and while some couples prefer to dance around it, money can be a major part of that. Marriage involves the merging of two lives, including their finances. 

While this is a huge step for any couple, there are also several positive financial aspects available to married couples compared to unmarried partners. 

What are the financial advantages and disadvantages of getting married?

From a financial perspective, there are several important considerations to think about before signing your marriage contract. 

There are several financial benefits for married people, from social security benefits to tax breaks, and improved insurance plans. 

Potential financial pros of marriages to consider 

Combined income:  When you’re in a marriage partnership, you can pool your finances and boost your overall financial stability. “Combined income and resources provide greater financial stability, allowing couples to pool their resources and grow assets and savings more efficiently,” says Caruso. Usually, married couples utilize shared bank accounts, with less of a barrier between mine and yours when it comes to money. This means that they have an increased purchasing power, enabling couples to afford larger investments, such as a home, which might be out of reach for a single income.

Insurance benefits:  Married couples have access to insurance policies that are specific to spouses — these can offer better prices and coverage. This also applies to health insurance, certain health care policies, or life insurance policies. 

Sharing of expenses:  When you’re cohabiting, it makes sense to pool your resources and split your expenses — whether that’s equal contributions or an agreed-upon split. “Couples who share expenses like rent, utilities, and groceries can reduce individual financial burdens,” says Caruso. 

Tax advantages:  “Tax advantages are often available to married couples as well, including lower tax rates and increased deductions,” says Caruso. For example, married couples can complete a joint tax return or joint filers may qualify for higher income thresholds for various tax deductions and credits. 

Inheritance:  Spouses often inherit without having to pay estate taxes, which is not always the case for non-spousal heirs. Estate planning is of great importance for couples, as it gives them an extra degree of security that their surviving spouse will benefit when they pass away. 

Financial protection: Overall, a combined income gives both partners greater financial security. For example, if one spouse becomes unemployed or has health struggles, they have a safety net to fall back on. 

Retirement perks: While you usually have to earn taxable income to contribute to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), married couples can benefit from a spousal IRA. 

Legal protections: There are some legal benefits from getting married, including financial, insurance, and tax benefits we have mentioned. Overall, from a legal perspective, a marriage license or contract offers couples more security and stability. 

Potential financial disadvantages of marriages to consider 

Financial debt:  When you’re married you could be taking on the debt of the other person, with this now becoming a shared responsibility. This financial burden can affect both partner’s well-being, as they have to prioritize paying this off. 

Responsibility:  If you’re married, you naturally take on some financial responsibilities for your spouse. Taking on this kind of responsibility can increase stress and conflict among the couple. 

Difference in income: Partners frequently earn different amounts, and while this is normal, it can cause tension if one person is a significantly higher earner. “Significant differences in income can lead to financial dependency, which creates power imbalances and potential conflicts over financial control and decision-making,” says Caruso. Some couples prefer to sign a prenuptial agreement so there is no risk of financial disagreements down the line. 

The “marriage penalty”: While marriage has many financial tax perks, there are also potential downsides for couples who fall within a higher tax bracket. The marriage penalty might pop up for couples after they jointly file with the IRS, resulting in a higher tax bill. If you’re worried about this, you can always talk to your accountant so you can know what to expect from your income tax filings and any potential penalties that may arise. 

Power imbalance:  If one person is outearning the other, or is making the largest financial contributions in the relationship — it can leave the other feeling in debt to the other. Or, for the person who has a greater financial stake in the relationship, it can lead to feelings of  resentment . 

Spending habits: Everyone is entitled to spend their money in the way they see fit. However, when it’s a shared income or savings, it can cause issues with how you choose to spend it. “Individual habits, like spending and saving, can lead to stress and a lack of trust when not managed or clearly communicated prior to combining resources,” says Caruso. 

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Pro: ‘formalising’ relationship

Con: old-fashioned institution, pro: financial security, con: divorce statistics, pro: excuse for a party, con: weddings costs.

January has the unfortunate reputation as being the month of divorce.

The first Monday of the year in particular has "long been known" among solicitors and counsellors as "Divorce Day" , said the BBC , coming as it does after the "pressures of the festive period".

More and more couples in the UK are also choosing not to marry in the first place. The last census for England and Wales showed that the proportion of adults who have never been married or in a civil partnership increased from 26% in 1991 to 38% in 2021. "The number of people getting married is at the lowest rate on record," said the Office for National Statistics . 

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There are a number of reasons for the decline.

For many people, formalising a relationship in the eyes of the law – or God – is a way of taking a partnership to the next level. "There is something to be said about a true union," Barbie Adler, founder of matchmaking company Selective Search, told Brides magazine. "Marriage is the ultimate commitment."

According to the magazine, even couples who have lived together for years "say they feel more at ease once they said their vows". And "for many, marriage brings a sense of security, a grounding they can't get any other way".

Nearly a quarter of Brits surveyed by YouGov last summer thought marriage was an outdated institution. "Back in the 1400s when people were getting married, it was 'until death do you part'. Because people would get married as teenagers and somebody would die in their 20s or early 30s," wrote relationship coach and author David Wygant in an article for HuffPost . But most people live "a lot longer", and many "grow" and "evolve" in ways that mean they and their partner "no longer work well together".

Critics also point to the inherent sexism in some wedding traditions, such as a bride wearing a white dress to symbolise virginity, a groom asking a father's "permission" to marry his daughter, and women taking their husband's surname. It wasn't until 2021 that mothers of brides and grooms in England and Wales were included on marriage certificates alongside fathers. Changes in attitudes towards living together and having children out of wedlock also offer greater freedoms.

Marriage "no longer has the same sanctity" it perhaps once did, and many who are not "concerned with the religious connotations" may not see the point, said the law firm Grayfords . Overall, many couples simply don't "feel the need" to be married, which is a "sign of the changing times".

Married couples can pass money and assets to each other tax-free, which can save a "significant amount of money if you want to sell assets that would incur capital gains tax", because "splitting or co-owning an asset with your partner would double the tax-free portion", said Investors' Chronicle . Other financial benefits include the marriage tax allowance, a tax perk that allows a spouse to use a portion of their partner's personal allowance "if they earn less than the value of the personal allowance and you are a basic-rate income tax payer", the magazine explained.

People who are married or in civil partnerships also have more financial protection if they separate than unmarried couples who split. In the event that "your marriage or civil partnership ends, you can ask for financial support – known as 'spousal maintenance' – from your ex-partner as soon as you separate", in addition to any child maintenance, said Citizens Advice . By contrast, unmarried couples don't have to support each other financially after splitting.

And marriage or civil partnerships can provide a degree of financial security for a spouse whose partner dies. Unmarried couples do not automatically inherit anything when their partner dies if there is no will in place, unlike their married peers. Surviving spouses may also be entitled to their partner's state pension after they die, depending on their level of National Insurance contributions.

High divorce rates may be putting some people off marriage. "Studies have shown that children of divorce in Europe and North America are less likely to marry and more likely to cohabit with a partner instead," said the research centre Population Europe .

ONS data shows that 113,505 divorces were granted in England and Wales in 2021. That total represented an increase of 9.6% on 2020, but many family court activities were delayed or suspended in 2020 as a result of the pandemic and that may have contributed to the increase.

Weddings are a rare chance to bring a couple's nearest and dearest together to celebrate. For many couples, it is one of the best days of their lives.

Weddings can be a "powerful" way for couples to "stand up in front of their family and friends and declare their love for one another", said Brides magazine. "It’s a way to bring your partner into your family officially and tie your two worlds together."

The average cost of a wedding in 2022 was £18,400, according to a survey by Hitched published last year, up 6% from 2021.

With the cost-of-living crisis hitting households nationwide, a growing number of couples may be unwilling or unable to splash out on their big day. The cost of a wedding, which is a "huge expense", can slip down the list to make way for "competing saving priorities", said law firm Grayfords. For many, the costs of buying or renting a house or having children are more important.

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Richard Windsor is a freelance writer for The Week Digital. He began his journalism career writing about politics and sport while studying at the University of Southampton. He then worked across various football publications before specialising in cycling for almost nine years, covering major races including the Tour de France and interviewing some of the sport’s top riders. He led Cycling Weekly’s digital platforms as editor for seven of those years, helping to transform the publication into the UK’s largest cycling website. He now works as a freelance writer, editor and consultant.

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The Pros and Cons of Early Marriage vs Late Marriage

Marriage is one of the most important decisions in a person’s life, and couples around the world have diverse views on when it is best to get married. On the one hand, couples may opt for an early marriage, sometimes referred to as a ‘shotgun marriage’, while on the other, couples may believe it is best to wait until later in life to tie the knot. This debate between Early Marriage vs. Late Marriage has been raging for centuries and will continue to be a major issue. In the following essay, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each option and ultimately conclude which is the better choice.

Table of Contents

Early Marriage Or Late Marriage – Which is Good & Why

The debate between early marriage and late marriage is one that has been around for years. Some people believe that the earlier you get married, the better off you’ll be. Others believe that it’s best to wait until you’re older and more established before tying the knot. So, which is the right choice? There are pros and cons to both early and late marriage. Getting married young can mean that you have your whole life ahead of you to enjoy with your spouse. You’re also likely to be less set in your ways at a younger age, making it easier to compromise and adapt to married life. On the downside, young marriages are often more prone to divorce than those where the spouses are older. This may be because people in their 20s are still figuring out who they are and what they want in life, making it harder to commit to one person for the long haul. Waiting until you’re older to get married has its own set of advantages and disadvantages . One plus side is that you’re likely to be more financially stable when you’re older, meaning you can provide a better life for your spouse and any children you might have. You’re also likely to be emotionally maturer than someone who gets married young, making it easier to handle the ups and downs of marriage. However, waiting too long to marry can mean missing out on some of the best years of your life with your spouse. It can also make starting a family more difficult if you wait until later in life. So, which is better – early marriage or late marriage? There’s no easy answer since there are pros and cons to both choices. Ultimately, it depends on what’s important to you and what will make you happy in life. If starting a family is important then getting married sooner rather than later may be the best choice for you . If financial stability is key then waiting until later in life may make more sense . Whichever route you choose , just remember that communication , commitment ,and love are essential for a happy and successful marriage .

Advantages And Disadvantages of Early And Late Marriage

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Early and Late Marriage: Marriage is a lifetime commitment that should not be taken lightly. Couples who wait until they are older to marry often have a better chance of having a lasting, happy marriage than those who marry young. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of early and late marriage to help you decide when the right time for you may be. Advantages of Early Marriage:

• Couples usually know each other very well before getting married since they have been dating for awhile
• Finances may be less of an issue since both partners are likely to be in similar financial situations
• May be easier to start a family since both partners are likely to be in their 20s or 30s which is considered prime childbearing age Disadvantages of Early Marriage:
• One or both partners may not have completed their education which can lead to difficulties later on down the road
• Can put strain on the relationship if one partner feels ready for marriage but the other does not
• Couples may not have had enough time to truly get to know each other leading to potential problems later in the marriage

Are Late Marriages More Successful?

The jury is still out on whether late marriages are more successful than early ones. Some studies show that couples who marry later in life tend to have lower divorce rates, while other research indicates that these unions are no more likely to last than those of couples who wed in their 20s. So, what’s the verdict? It’s tough to say definitively whether late marriages are more successful than early ones. However, there are a few key factors that may contribute to the longevity of a relationship formed later in life. For starters, couples who wait to marry tend to be more mature and better equipped to handle the challenges of married life. They’re also typically financially stable and have had time to figure out what they want (and don’t want) in a partner. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule. Some young couples do manage to create lasting relationships, and some older pairs find themselves divorced after just a few years of marriage. Ultimately, the success or failure of any marriage depends on the individuals involved and how well they communicate, compromise, and work together as a team.

Explain the two sides of the argument

Early Marriage:

• Allows couples to establish a strong foundation for their relationship and family.
• Provides the couple with more time to experience the joys of life and raising a family.
• Offers added stability and security, due to the commitment and responsibilities that come with marriage.
• Can provide greater economic benefits, such as pooling resources, shared health insurance, and tax breaks.

Late Marriage:

• Couples can take the time to get to know each other better, without the added pressures of marriage.
• A better overall understanding of one’s own identity, goals, and desires.
• Greater financial stability, as people usually have increased earning power by the time they reach their late twenties and thirties.
• More opportunities to learn and grow as an individual, before settling down with a partner.
• Discuss the potential implications of each side

Evaluate the Societal Expectations of Early Marriage

Societal expectations of early marriage can vary by culture, race, background and socioeconomic status. Generally, they place a high value on marriage and emphasize the importance of family and community. Early marriages can lead to financial obligations, as well as legal and emotional responsibilities, that can be difficult for a young person to handle. In addition, early marriages can end up limiting a person’s education and career opportunities. They can also put young spouses in positions of power which can have devastating effects if one partner is not ready for the responsibility. However, when successful, early marriages can lead to strong and lasting relationships and provide stability in a family. Ultimately, the societal expectations of early marriage should be weighed carefully and considered in light of the individual’s financial, emotional and physical capabilities.

Assess the Societal Expectations of Late Marriage

Societal expectations of late marriage can vary depending on the culture and the individuals involved. Generally, however, many people in modern societies expect late marriage to involve not just commitment and responsibility but greater financial stability, more developed career prospects, better education and more defined life goals. Additionally, late marriage is often seen as a milestone that indicates maturity and independence. As such, late marriage is often viewed as a sign of success, which many aspire to attain. However, late marriage can also bring with it additional problems, such as difficulty balancing work and family life and more complex family dynamics. Ultimately, each individual must decide what they feel is best depending on their own desires, values and goals.

There are many pros and cons to getting married early vs. late. Some people believe getting married early is better because you have more time to enjoy being with your spouse and start a family. On the other hand, some people believe that getting married later in life is better because you have more time to focus on your career and establish financial stability before starting a family.

Ultimately, the decision of when to get married is personal, and there is no right or wrong answer.

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Home — Essay Samples — Sociology — Arranged Marriage — The Pros and Cons of Arranged Marriage in Modern Society

The Pros and Cons of Arranged Marriage in Modern Society

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Published: Feb 7, 2024

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Introduction, history of arranged marriage, pros of arranged marriage, cons of arranged marriage, cultural differences of arranged marriage, modern arranged marriage, arranged marriage vs. love marriage.

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20 Financial Pros and Cons of Getting Married Later in Life

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In This Article

For many individuals, the financial repercussions of getting married are the last issue of consideration when deciding to tie the knot.

When you’re in love, you are unlikely to “count the costs” of the impending nuptials. Will we be able to support ourselves? What about insurance, medical costs, and the expense of a larger home?

While these questions are fundamental, we usually do not let them drive the overall conversation. But we should. We must.

The financial pros and cons of getting married later in life can be very significant. While none of these pros and cons of getting married older are “sure things” or “deal breakers,” they should be thoroughly examined and weighed.

Below, we explore some of the significant financial pros and cons of marrying later in life. As you peruse this list, be in conversation with your partner.

Ask one another, “Will our financial situations hamper or enhance our future nuptials?” And, relatedly, “Should we seek the counsel of someone removed from our situation and family experience?”

So, what are the advantages and disadvantages of late marriage?

How important are finances in marriage? Watch this video to know more.

Ten financial pros of marrying later in life

What are some of the advantages of marrying later in life? Here are ten points to convince you that getting married later in life may be beneficial, at least financially. 

1. Healthier fiscal “bottom line”

For most older couples getting married later in life, a combined income is the most apparent advantage.

A combined income is greater than expected in the earlier stages of life.

Older couples often benefit from a healthier fiscal “bottom line.” The higher income means more flexibility for travel, investment, and other discretionary expenditures.

Multiple homes, land holdings, and the like bolster the fiscal bottom line. What’s to lose, right?

2. A robust safety net for lean times

Older couples tend to have a bevy of assets at their disposal. From stock portfolios to real estate holdings, they often benefit from various financial resources that can provide a robust safety net for lean times.

Under the right conditions, all of these assets can be liquidated and transferred.

With this advantage of marrying later in life , one can marry a partner, knowing that our income stream can provide them with stability if we encounter an untimely death.

3. Companion for financial consultation

Seasoned individuals often have a good handle on their revenue and expenditures. Engaged in a consistent pattern of financial management , they know how to manage their money in a principled way.

This disciplined approach to financial management could mean financial stability for the marriage. Sharing the best of your financial insights and methods with a partner may be a win-win.

Having a companion to consult with on financial issues may also be a wonderful asset.

4. Both partners are financially independent

Older couples also step into a marriage with experience “paying their way.” Well-versed in the costs of maintaining a household, they may not be dependent on their partner’s income when they enter marriage.

This implied financial independence may serve the couple well as they begin their married life together. The old “his, her, mine” approach to bank accounts and other assets honors independence while also creating a beautiful sense of connectivity.

5. Combined and better financial health

Partners who marry late in life are likely to have better combined financial health. When both people have good investments, savings, and property, they will likely be financially sounder later when they combine their assets. For instance, they can rent one house and live in the other, giving them recurring income.

6. Solution-oriented approach

Since both of you come from a mature mindset and have shared your financial experiences, you enter the relationship with a solution-oriented approach to the financial crisis . You are likely to know how to handle such situations better.

7. Sharing costs

If you have been living on your own for the longest time, you understand that the cost of living is, in no way, less. However, when you get married, you can live with your spouse and cut some living costs in exactly half. 

8. Fewer taxes

While this may depend on the tax bracket both partners fall into; marriage may mean a reduction in the total taxes they pay for some people. This is a great incentive for people who are not yet married to get married and avail of benefits.

9. You are just in a better place

One vital pro of getting married later in life is that you are in a better place, and we do not mean just financially. You may have paid all your debt back and have savings and investments that made you feel more secure and confident. This also positively affects your marriage or relationship since you are not dependent on your partner for anything.

This research highlights how low-income couples can have a reduced quality of relationships due to finances.

10. No income inequality

When people get married too young, there are chances that one partner earns more than the other. This could mean that one of them has to support the other financially. While nothing is wrong with that, it can sometimes lead to problems in the marriage. 

A pro of getting married later in life is that there may not be income inequality between the partners , reducing the chances of fights or arguments related to finances.

The financial cons of getting married later in life

What are some of the reasons that advocate you shouldn’t get married too late in life, with respect to finances? Read on.

1. Financial suspicion

Believe it or not, financial suspicion may creep into the psyche of individuals giving a late-stage marriage union a shot. As we age, we tend to guard our interests and assets.

In the absence of full disclosure with our potential mates, we may become quite suspicious that our significant other is withholding “lifestyle” enhancing income from us.

If our loved one continues to enrich their lives and we continue to struggle, do we want to be part of a “sketchy” union?

This is one of the financial disadvantages of marriage later in life.

2. Increased medical expenditures

Another disadvantage of getting married later in life is that medical expenses rise as we age. While we can often manage the first decades of life with limited medical expenses, later life may be inundated with trips to the hospital, dental clinic, rehab center, and the like.

When married, we pass these expenses on to our significant other. If we face a catastrophic illness or death, we pass the hefty expense on to those remaining. Is this the legacy we want to offer those we love the most?

3. Partner’s resources can get diverted toward their dependents

Adult dependents often seek financial support from their parents when the financial ship is listing. When we marry an older adult with adult children, their children become ours too.

If we disagree with the financial approach our loved ones take with their adult children, we are positioning all parties for significant conflict. Is it worth it? It’s up to you.

4. Liquidation of a partner’s assets

Eventually, most of us will need medical care that far exceeds our capacity. Assisted living/nursing homes may be in the cards when we cannot care for ourselves.

The financial impact of this level is tremendous, often leading to liquidating of one’s assets. This is an important consideration for older adults contemplating marriage.

5. Becoming responsible for children

When you marry late in life, you are likely to become financially responsible for children that your partner has from a previous marriage or relationship. For some, this may not be an issue. But for others, it can be a huge financial cost they would want to consider before tying the knot.

6. Loss of social security benefits

If you are someone availing of the social security benefits from a previous marriage, you will lose out on them if you decide to remarry . This is one of the biggest cons people consider when getting married late in life.

This is definitely one of the disadvantages of marrying later in life.

7. Higher taxes

One of the reasons that older couples believe in cohabitating rather than getting married is because of the higher taxes. For some people, getting married may put the other partner in a higher tax bracket, making them pay more of their income as taxes, which could otherwise be used for expenses or savings.

8. Sorting out estates

You will likely have a few estates when you are older and may bring some valuables into the marriage. A con of getting married late can be the division of these estates when they have to be divided among children or grandchildren from different marriages.

In death, a share of these estates might go to the surviving spouse, not the children, which can be a concern for a parent.

9. College costs

Another reason older people consider not getting married is college costs for children of that age. College aid applications consider both spouses’ income when considering financial aid, even if only one of them is the child’s biological parent. 

Therefore, marriage later in life can be detrimental to children’s college funds.

10. Where do the funds go?

Another con of getting married later in life understands where the extra funds go. For instance, you rented out your partner’s house and started to live in yours. Is the rent from the other house going into a joint account? Where are these funds being used?

Chalking out these financial details may take up a lot of energy and time when you get married later in life.

Making the decision

Overall, there are many pros and cons of late marriage.

While it can be scary to “open the books” on our financial matters, it is important to offer as much information as possible as we step into the joys and challenges of marriage.

In the same way, our partners should be willing to disclose their financial information too. The intent is to foster healthy conversation about how the two independent households will work together as one unit.

On the flip side, our disclosures may show that a physical and emotional union is possible, but a fiscal union is impossible.

If partners share their financial stories transparently, they may discover their management and investment styles are fundamentally incongruent.

What to do? If you are still unsure about the pros and cons of a late marriage, ask for help from a trusted counselor and discern whether or not the union will be a viable union of a potential catastrophe.

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Rachael Pace is a noted relationship writer associated with Marriage.com. She provides inspiration, support, and empowerment in the form of motivational articles and essays. Rachael enjoys studying the evolution of loving partnerships Read more and is passionate about writing on them. She believes that everyone should make room for love in their lives and encourages couples to work on overcoming their challenges together. Read less

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The financial pros and cons of marriage.

Marriage used to be merely an economic exchange. A bride was “given away” by her family along with some sort of dowry. Or a groom’s family would “buy” a bride from her folks with the hopes that she’d produce children and take on common housewifery tasks. If a deep and loving connection ensued, well then, that was just a bonus.

Thankfully, our world has evolved. In 2024, women are now running more Fortune 500 companies than ever before, we’re taking control of our financial lives by investing in the stock market , and marriage has evolved to be a consensual union of two individuals who love one another… But we can’t pretend that marriage no longer has economic implications. There are several financial pros and cons of marriage. Here’s a look.

1. Pro: A Greater Chance at Building Wealth

“The biggest advantage after saying ‘I do’ is that your earnings typically go up and your expenses go down,” says Stacy Francis, founder and CEO of Francis Financial, a wealth management boutique in New York. “This leads to married couples accumulating more assets than their nonmarried counterparts.”

If you’re going into a two-income household, you may benefit from a “more beefed up balance sheet,” says Francis. This can help couples better qualify for a mortgage or other loans if they apply individually.

At least one study has shown that marriage has a more positive impact on wealth creation than staying single. Jay Zagorsky, a researcher at the Ohio State University, authored the most complete research to date on the economics of marriage back in 2005.  His research found that married folks experience individual net worth increases of 77 percent over singletons in their 20s, 30s, and early 40s. Married couples also see their wealth jump 16 percent for each year of marriage.

2. Con: The Wedding Could Set You Back

The cost of the reception, gowns, tuxes, flowers, honeymoon and everything in between are — combined — one big reason couples may choose to put marriage on the back burner.

A city hall wedding isn’t for everyone, and some still want to save up to afford the wedding of their dreams. Given recent figures, it could take a while. Last year, the average cost of a wedding was $35,000, according to wedding website TheKnot . Five figures is nothing to scoff about and for some, those funds could be better put to use elsewhere.

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3. Pro: More Financial Accountability

When you become a party of two, there are other financial pros and cons you may not have thought about before. You may feel more pressure to get your personal financial act together.

“It’s one thing to ignore your finances when you are the only one being hurt,” says Manisha Thakor, director of wealth strategies for women at Buckingham & The BAM Alliance. “It’s a whole other thing to be putting in jeopardy the financial future of the one you love most.”

This is a great thing, as the union often encourages more consciousness of how you’re spending and saving .

“The very commitment of getting married often creates a mindset of wanting to care for and protect the other person, which in turn can catapult financial well-being to a front-burner topic,” adds Thakor.

4. Con: Additional Money Stress

Money is one of the leading causes of fighting in a marriage, and a top predictor of divorce . That’s partly because we tend to marry our financial opposites, according to at least one academic study. As a result, financial planning can become a bigger source of stress in matrimony.

“Problems are likely to arise when realistic spending boundaries are not set,” says Francis. “One person is a spender and another is a saver. One spouse has an awful credit score and the other has worked for years to keep theirs over 800. These are all difference that can create marital woes.”

READ MORE: What Happens If You Don’t Sign A Prenup?

5. Con: You May Face a Bigger Tax Burden

Ah, the infamous “marriage penalty.” It’s that higher tax bill that sometimes arrives when dual-income married couples file jointly with the IRS. The pooled incomes tend to bump couples up to a higher tax bracket. This can sometimes make them subject to paying more.

Bonus Taxes Pro: Marriage Might Help Your Finances In other cases, marriage can yield a tax “bonus” or pay fewer taxes as a result of their marital status. This is particularly true for couples with one working spouse and one stay-at-home spouse. According to TurboTax , “The more unequal two spouses’ incomes, the more likely that combining them on a joint return will pull some of the higher-earner’s income into a lower bracket. That’s when the marriage bonus occurs.”

6. Pro: Unemployed? You Can Still Have an IRA

To invest in an individual retirement account, or IRA, you typically need to have earned income. There is an exception, however, for married people. A spousal IRA lets a working spouse make contributions on behalf of a nonworking partner. If you choose to be a stay-at-home parent during your marriage or if you lose your job, you can still stay active with retirement savings.

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7. Pro: You Can Piggyback on Benefits

If you don’t have access to a group health insurance plan, you may be able to get on a spouse’s health care plan from work. Many of these group plans allow adding spouses to the policy and receive equal access to health care benefits. There may be an additional fee for adding a spouse, but it’s often cheaper than buying an individual policy from the marketplace.

You may qualify for spousal Social Security benefits. You could claim benefits once your spouse filed for their own benefits and is at least 62 years old. Spousal benefits are generally 50 percent of the full Social Security benefit if the spouse files at his or her “full retirement age” (generally 66 or 67, depending on when you were born).

“You are eligible for spousal benefits even if you have never worked,” says Robertson. “This can be a huge (financial) win for a spouse who had a low income or who did not pay enough into Social Security to be eligible based on his or her own earnings.”

8. Pro: The Law May Protect You if Your Spouse Dies

Estate planning is important in every marriage. If your spouse suddenly passes away without a will, you may still allow you to claim certain assets, depending on your state’s intestacy laws.

“Our society has some built-in protections for married couples,” says to Jon Robertson, a Certified Financial Planner with Abacus Planning Group in Columbia, S.C. “If you aren’t married, the rules of intestacy will not apply and you will inherit no money unless your partner has a will directing assets to you.”

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தமிழில் உள்ள நுணுக்கங்கள்

Marriage horoscope: ’மேஷம் முதல் மீனம் வரை!’ உங்கள் வாழ்கைத் துணை பற்றி சொல்லும் 7ஆம் இட ரகசியங்கள் இதோ!

Marriage horoscope: ராகு, கேதுவை தவிர்த்த அனைத்து கிரகங்களுக்கும் 7ஆம் பார்வை உள்ளதால் 7ஆம் இடத்தில் அமரும் கிரகங்கள் உங்கள் லக்னத்தை கட்டுப்படுத்தும் என்பதால் 7ஆம் இடத்தில் கிரகங்கள் இல்லாமல் இருப்பது வெகு சிறப்புகளை தரும்.

ஒரு ஜாதகத்திற்கு வாழ்கைத் துணையை கொடுக்க கூடிய ஸ்தானமாக 7ஆம் இடம் உள்ளது. 7ஆம் இடத்தை தன்மைகளை கொண்டே ஒருவரின் வாழ்கை துணை எப்படி இருப்பார் என்பதை நாம் பார்க்கலாம். 

இது போன்ற போட்டோக்கள்

வாழ்கைத் துணை மட்டுமின்றி, ஒரு மனிதனின் பாதி வாழ்கையை குறிக்கும் இடமாகவும் 7ஆம் இடம் உள்ளது. சமுதாயத் தொடர்பு, 10ஆம் இடத்திற்கு 10ஆம் இடம், கூட்டாளிகள் உடனான தொடர்பு, காதலில் வெற்றி, காமத்தின் நிலை, வாழ்கைத் துணையின் தகுதி, சட்டரீதியான ஒப்பந்தங்கள், கூட்டளிகளின் தன்மை, ஆயுளின் தன்மைகள், தாயாரின் சொத்துக்கள், தகப்பன் வழி உறவுகள், வாழ்கைத் துணையின் குணம் மற்றும் ஒழுக்கம், காம த்தின் தன்மை ஆகியவற்றை குறிக்கும் இடமாக 7ஆம் இடம் உள்ளது. 

ராகு , கேதுவை தவிர்த்த அனைத்து கிரகங்களுக்கும் 7ஆம் பார்வை உள்ளதால் 7ஆம் இடத்தில் அமரும் கிரகங்கள் உங்கள் லக்னத்தை கட்டுப்படுத்தும் என்பதால் 7ஆம் இடத்தில் கிரகங்கள் இல்லாமல் இருப்பது வெகு சிறப்புகளை தரும். மனிதரின் ஆயுளை குறைக்க கூடிய பொது மாரக ஸ்தானம் ஆகவும் 7ஆம் இடம் விளங்குகின்றது. 

நல்ல வாழ்கைத் துணை, நல்ல கூட்டாளி, நல்ல சமுதாயத் தொடர்புகள் அமைவதன் மூலமே ஒரு மனிதனின் வெற்றி, தோல்விகள் தீர்மானிக்கப்படுகின்றது. இது அனைத்தையும் சொல்லும் இடமாக 7ஆம் இடம் உள்ளது. 

சூரியன் 

லக்னத்திற்கு 7ஆம் இடத்தில் சூரியன் இருந்தால், லக்னம் வலுவாக இருப்பது அவசியம், அப்படி இல்லை எனில் ஆட்டிப்படைக்கும் வாழ்கை துணை உண்டாகும். கூட்டளிகளால் அடிமைபடுத்தும் நிலை ஏற்படலாம். 

சந்திரன் 

சந்திரன் 7ஆம் இடத்தில் அமர்வது சிறப்புகளை தரும். அழகான குணம் நிறைந்த வாழ்கைத் துணை அமைவார். பயணங்களில் ஈடுபாடு இருக்கும். சீரான முன்னேற்றம் உண்டாகும். வெளிநாடுகளுக்கு சென்று வாழும் சூழல் உண்டாகும். ஒப்பந்தங்கள் மூலம் வெற்றி கிடைக்கும். 

செவ்வாய் 

செவ்வாய் 7ஆம் வீட்டில் இருந்தால் குணக்கேடுகளை உருவாகும் வாழ்கை துணையை தரும். கோபம் கொண்ட வாழ்கைத் துணை மற்றும் கூட்டாளிகள் கிடைப்பார்கள். லக்னாதிபதிக்கு சுபர்கள் தொடர்பு இருந்தால் மட்டுமே திருமணம், கூட்டுத் தொழிலில் முன்னேற்றம் உண்டாகும். 

புதன் 

புதன் 7ஆம் இடத்தில் இருந்தால் புத்திசாலியான வாழ்கைத் துணை அமையும். எழுத்துத்துறையில் ஆர்வம் இருக்கும். புரிந்து கொள்ளக்கூடிய வாழ்கைத் துணை கிடைப்பார்கள். சமுகத்துடன் இணக்கமான சூழல் உண்டாகும். 

குரு பகவான் 7ஆம் இடத்தில் இருப்பது சிறப்புகளை தரும். புரிந்து கொள்ளும் தன்மை, பெரிய மனித தன்மை, நல்ல கூட்டாளிகள், பெரிய மனிதர்கள் ஆதரவு, முன்னேற்றப் பாதைக்கு செல்வது, ஒழுக்க சீலர்களாக இருப்பது உள்ளிட்ட பண்புகள் ஜாதகருக்கு இருக்கும். இவர்களுக்கு அமையும் வாழ்கைத் துணை புரிந்து கொள்ளக்கூடிய வாழ்கைத் துணையாக இருப்பார்.

சுக்கிரன் 

சுக்கிரன் 7ஆம் இடத்தில் இருப்பது அதிக காதல் வயப்படும் நிலை, அழகியல் கொண்ட வாழ்கைத் துணை அமைவது, காம சிந்தனைகள் அதிகம் இருப்பது, இளமையில் திருமணம் ஏற்படுவது, எதிர்பாலினரிடம் ஈர்ப்பு இருந்து கொண்டே இருத்தல், சொத்து, சுகம் உடன் கூடிய வாழ்கை துணை அமைவது போன்றவை ஏற்படும். 

சனி, ராகு, கேது

சனி, ராகு, கேது ஆகிய மூன்று கிரகங்களும் 7ஆம் இடத்தில் அசூர வலுவைப்பெறுவார்கள் என்பதால் திருமண தாமதம் உண்டாகும். சிலருக்கு திருமணமே நடைபெறாத சூழல், திருமண வாழ்கையில் சிரமம் உள்ளிட்ட நிலை உண்டாகும்.

பொறுப்பு துறப்பு

இந்தக் கட்டுரையில் உள்ள எந்தவொரு தகவல்/பொருள்/கணக்கீட்டின் துல்லியம் அல்லது நம்பகத்தன்மைக்கு எந்த விதமான உத்தரவாதமும் இல்லை. இதில் குறிப்பிடப்பட்டுள்ள தகவல்கள் அனைத்தும் பல்வேறு ஊடகங்கள் / ஜோதிடர்கள் / பஞ்சாங்கங்கள் / சொற்பொழிவுகள் / நம்பிக்கைகள் / வேதங்களில் இருந்து சேகரித்து உங்களுக்குத் தெரிவிக்கப்பட்டுள்ளது. எங்கள் நோக்கம் தகவல்களை வழங்குவது மட்டுமே. இதிலிருந்து வெறும் தகவல்களை மட்டுமே பயனாளர்கள் எடுத்துக்கொள்ள வேண்டும். மற்றபடி இதிலிருந்து பயன்படுத்திக்கொள்வது பயனாளரின் பொறுப்பாகும்.

The Pros and Cons of Gay Marriage Argumentative Essay

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Relationships between sexes have been traditionally streamlined into the heterosexual standards of behavior. Marriage, as a union of two people before the law and the church, is mostly perceived as such comprising representatives of different sexes, a man and a woman.

However, apart from heterosexual couples, there also emerge occurrences when two people of the same sex desire to form a matrimonial unit. In such cases, the term of same-sex marriage or gay marriage is applied whenever such union is officially recognized by the legal system of a country. The attitude to gay marriage has differed throughout the existence of humankind, varying from approval to indifference to persecution.

After a historical wave of human rights movement, modern society appears to be reconsidering its attitude to gay marriage on the whole, and a number of countries have already accepted gay marriage as legal. Despite this change, the opposition between the proponents and the opponents of gay marriage remains tense, nurtured by a wide range of mutually exclusive arguments for and against gay marriage.

The first argument typically used to defend gay marriage in public opinion is the populist slogan of human rights movement that every person, irrespective of sexual background, has the right to love and family life. Indeed, by denying marriage among representatives of the same sex, the principle of majority rule, minority right is violated (Messerli).

If homosexually oriented people are viewed as a minority, then it appears that denying marriage to them is similar to denying marriage to people of non-Caucasus race, etc. In fact, such prohibition of gay marriage appears nothing less than mere discrimination, a phenomenon that modern society is trying to eradicate by all means.

Counteracting the argument that prohibition of gay marriage appears similar to discrimination is the idea that marriage, in the traditional understanding of the word, is the union of necessarily different sexes, a man and a woman. The main function of a traditional heterosexual marriage is viewed in producing children of their own, a function that a same-sex marriage cannot physically perform.

Adopting children or getting offspring via artificial fertilization (in couples consisting of homosexual females) cannot be viewed as reproduction proper since either both or one of the partners are not directly involved in the process of conception and childbearing. Therefore, due to the inability to perform the basic function of the family, gay marriage can hardly be recognized as marriage proper.

Another argument in defense of gay marriage is viewed by some of its proponents in the fact that the practice of adopting children by gay couples promotes adoption rates and benefits the situation with parentless children. The more gay couples are legally married, the more chances there are that they will be officially allowed to adopt and raise children (Messerli).

Considering that the numbers of parentless children in the world is overflowing, gay marriages could be a beneficial solution to this problem. In addition, gay marriage would promote the sense of family among the homosexual couples and make this sense complete with adopting a child.

Opponents of same-sex marriages arduously refute the argument of the beneficial effects of child adoptions by gay couples. For one thing, the standard type of family accepted in a traditional society and still dominating in modern world is a family where one of the parents is a man (or a father) and the other parent is a woman (or a mother).

In case with gay marriages, this balance of sexes would be impossible to maintain, and therefore the child may get confused about his or her family composition. In its turn, this may lead to misunderstanding of masculine and feminine roles and messy behavior with lack of own definition. For another thing, parent-child relations in a gay marriage are quite obscure.

It is a widely known fact that many people who grew up homosexual used to be sexually abused in their childhood. This closed circle may engross the adopted children into unwanted sexual practices that would streamline their life in a direction undesired by them.

A legal case in support of same-sex marriage is the idea that marriage as a social institution is readily recognized by the general public. Having concluded a legal marriage, a homosexual couple can enjoy the same citizen and family rights as traditional heterosexual couples.

Moreover, being officially registered as spouses brings homosexual more understanding in daily situations. In an interview to the Bay Area Reporter, policy director for Marriage Equality USA Pamela Brown states that “No one questions your spouse in the hospital if you’re married; but in a domestic partnership, you’d better bring your paperwork” (Laird). Community welcomes legalized marriage and demonstrates more tolerance if a homosexual couple is joined by official conjugal ties.

Despite the arduous support of institution of marriage on the example of gay marriages, there exist certain dangers connected with accepting same-sex marriages as legal. The basis of social respect for the institution of marriage lies in the uniqueness of the union between the man and the woman, since they are the only couple between sexes able to procreate (Messerli).

The traditional understanding of family as a husband, wife, and children has been the sacred notion that has helped people survive through most dreadful challenges. The dream of true family has led soldiers to fight for their motherland, and the vision of homely comfort and cozy family hearth is the one that helped survive economic depressions.

If this standard of family is changed, the consequences might be drastic. Expanding the borders of marriage to the point where they are blurred is threatening the stability of the institute of marriage. People will then be tempted to claim that any union be called a marriage, be it a union of one men with ten wives or a couple of blood relatives. Therefore, the borders of marriage should be kept inviolable, otherwise the whole institute can collapse.

Last but not least, the most stable basis for decision on legality or illegality of gay marriage should be the Scripture that has served as a guideline for moral standards for thousands of generations. However artfully it might be misrepresented by wishful interpreters, the Bible clearly states the standards of sexual behavior since the very first days of existence: a couple is heterosexual, “male to female, joined as God intended them to be” (ProCon.org).

This absolute truth should be taken as a model on which the whole institute of marriage is based. Any other digressions and variations can only be viewed as transient and therefore cannot be accepted as a standard, since they violate the ultimate dispensation granted to humankind.

Works Cited

Laird, Cynthia. “Pros and Cons of Gay Marriage Debated.” The Bay Area Reporter Online . 2007. Web.

Messerli, Joe. “ Should Same-Sex Marriages be Legalized? ” BalancedPolitics. 2009. Web.

ProCon.org. “ Top 10 Pros and Cons: Is Sexual Orientation Determined at Birth? ” BornGay.ProCon. 2009. Web.

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• Polygamy in America: Between Society, Law, and Gender
• “Just Say No? The Use of Conversation Analysis in Developing a Feminist Perspective on Sexual Refusal” by Kitzinger and Frith: Summary
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• Chicago (A-D)
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IvyPanda. (2018, July 5). The Pros and Cons of Gay Marriage. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-pros-and-cons-of-gay-marriage/

"The Pros and Cons of Gay Marriage." IvyPanda , 5 July 2018, ivypanda.com/essays/the-pros-and-cons-of-gay-marriage/.

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IvyPanda . 2018. "The Pros and Cons of Gay Marriage." July 5, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-pros-and-cons-of-gay-marriage/.

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Bibliography

IvyPanda . "The Pros and Cons of Gay Marriage." July 5, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-pros-and-cons-of-gay-marriage/.