Marriage: The Recipe for Happiness with Brad Wilcox
Jun 19, 2024
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Brad Wilcox, author of 'Get Married', discusses the reasons behind declining marriage rates, the benefits of marriage, and the impact of dating apps. He also explores the effects of divorce on children and highlights the significance of fatherhood and marriage.
Young adults prioritize education and career before marriage, shifting average age of first marriage.
Societal 'Midas mindset' values career success over family life, influenced by materialism and social media.
Certain groups are 'masters of marriage' with higher rates and happiness, emphasizing values and social networks.
Deep dives
Marriage Trends: From Cornerstone to Capstone Model
The average age of first marriage in America has shifted from the cornerstone model to the capstone model, leading to delayed marriages into late 20s or early 30s. Young adults now prioritize educational and career accomplishments before seeking a spouse, impacting marriage dynamics.
Parental Prioritization: The Midas Mindset over Family
The societal shift towards valuing financial and career success over family life is termed the 'Midas mindset'. Some parents prioritize children's career development over marriage, influenced by societal individualism, materialism, and the rise of social media.
Masters of Marriage: Religious and Conservative Americans
Certain groups like religious, Asian, college-educated, and conservative Americans stand out as 'masters of marriage'. These groups exhibit higher marriage rates and greater marital happiness, emphasizing values, virtues, and social networks as crucial factors in maintaining strong marriages.
Marriage and Financial Stability: Interconnected Success
Marriage plays a significant role in financial stability and success. Men who are married, particularly with children, tend to be more responsible, diligent, and financially prudent. Married couples typically have higher assets, indicating a positive correlation between marriage, financial security, and success.
Marriage and Happiness: The Impact of Marital Status
Research indicates that on average, married individuals, especially married moms, report higher levels of happiness compared to their unmarried counterparts. Marriage contributes to greater well-being, less loneliness, and more meaningful life experiences, debunking the myth of a perfect 'soulmate' for eternal happiness.
Fewer Americans are getting married today than ever in our nation’s history. But why? And is it really that big of a deal? Today, Keith sits down with Brad Wilcox, Professor of Sociology and author of “Get Married,” to learn why society should care about preserving our country’s most fundamental institution. Brad shares some of the reasons that people are being influenced to stay single or to wait until later in life to marry. He introduces the “Masters of Marriage,” or the four groups who are getting married and staying married the longest. He uses research to prove why married couples are happier than their counterparts and how marriage positively affects men in particular. Plus, what about dating apps? Shouldn’t these help increase the marriage rate? Is the idea of finding a soulmate all a myth? Do couples who cohabitate enjoy the same benefits as married couples? If you think you’re ready to listen, say “I do!”
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