In a recent Washington Post article, divorce rates with regard to socioeconomics and gender were discussed. Across all demographics, the U.S. divorce rate over the last 20 years has fallen. However, when examined more closely by socioeconomic status, there is a lack of parity. College educated couples, typically among the middle and upper class, have experienced divorce rates before their seventh anniversary drop from 20% to 11% since the 1980’s. Conversely, the rate of divorce among the poor are stagnant, hovering right around 17% rate for those couples with a combined income of less than $30,000. Sociologists and economists have theorized several factors which contribute to the lack of change in low income family divorce rates. Across the board, money is cited as a major source of contention causing divorce among all classes. With less income, the financial strains on a low income couple are even more severe. Moreover, the lower class has been put under more strain due to the nature of the U.S. economy. The shift in our economy has made it increasingly more difficult for those without a college education to find a job which pays enough to support a family. Middle income jobs for those with only a high school degree are all but disappearing. With only 14% of those enrolled in higher education from the bottom 50% of the income distribution, the gap will continue to grow.
Jobless Rate among Men is contributing to Divorce
Sociologists are also looking at the changing landscape of how women view marriage. Although the working class has been noted to have more strict opinion on husbands being the family provider, more women are expecting a partnership. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported in the summer of 2013, the jobless rate was higher among men than women. With more men out of work, women do not have the 50-50 partner they are seeking. Additionally, with men making up less than half (43%) of higher education enrollment, women are surpassing their counterparts. Two-thirds of divorces are initiated by women. The shifts in the economy and social views of marriage are clearly factors pointing to men’s contribution to divorce rates.
Towson Divorce Lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles Assist Clients in All Aspects of Maryland Divorce
With compassion and experience the Towson divorce lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC will provide you with the legal counsel you need so you can sleep well at night throughout your divorce proceedings. Our Baltimore divorce law firm offers free consultations at our Hunt Valley, Towson and Pikesville, Maryland offices. Residents of Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County and Howard County, Towson, Bel Air, Columbia, Westminster, Essex and Elliott City can contact us online or call 443-589-0150 to speak with a qualified divorce lawyer in Towson, Maryland.
