Issues, Etc. A Marriage 101 College Course – Dr. Andrea Gurney, 11/12/25 (3162)
Nov 12, 2025
Dr. Andrea Gurney, a licensed clinical psychologist and Westmont College professor, sheds light on the growing cynicism about marriage among youth due to factors like poor role models and hookup culture. She discusses rising loneliness, particularly in Gen Z, and how social media impacts in-person relationships. Gurney explains the need for her Marriage 101 course, emphasizing the importance of historical context and relational self-awareness. The course addresses communication, gender roles, and promotes healthy sexuality, garnering significant student interest.
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Why Young Adults Are Cynical About Marriage
- Young adults are cynical about marriage for multiple cultural and personal reasons like lack of role models and hookup culture.
- Individualism, social media, and the soulmate myth elevate expectations and fuel skepticism.
Loneliness Is A Modern Epidemic
- Loneliness rose before COVID and was declared an epidemic in 2023, driven by technology, individualism, and social isolation.
- Young adults report especially high loneliness despite online connectivity due to weaker in-person skills.
Require Relationship Education In College
- Teach marriage because relationships predict long-term health and happiness but receive little formal training.
- Make relationship education required so students learn practical skills before forming lifelong partnerships.
