1

Gender Differences in Attitudes Towards Marriage

Among Young Adults
Orla Goslin

Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements of the Bachelor of Arts

Degree (Social Science Specialization) at DBS School of Arts

Supervisor: Dr Bernadette Quinn

Head of Department: Dr Bernadette Quinn

April 2014
Department of Social Science
DBS School of Arts
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Table of Contents
Acknowledgements .................................................................................................................... 3

Abstract ...................................................................................................................................... 4

Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 5

Literature Review....................................................................................................................... 8

Aims and Objectives ................................................................................................................ 21

Hypothesis................................................................................................................................ 21

Methodology ............................................................................................................................ 22

Results ..................................................................................................................................... 26

Discussion ................................................................................................................................ 32

Limitations of the present research .......................................................................................... 38

Future Research ....................................................................................................................... 39

Conclusion ............................................................................................................................... 39

References ................................................................................................................................ 41

Appendix .................................................................................................................................. 45
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Acknowledgements

Throughout this course I received a lot of support and guidance from numerous of

people. Firstly, I would like to thank all the lectures from Dublin Business School for their

continuous help and support over the last three years. I would also like to thank the library

staff, who always had patience and a helpful manner. I would like to say a special thanks you

to Dr Bernadette Quinn, my research project supervisor and head of department for her

patience, guidance and support throughout the year. I would also like to thank participants of

this research for taking the time to fill out questionnaires, as they made my research possible.

Finally, I would like to thank my family, friends and college friends for the never ending

support and much needed laughs throughout my college education.

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Abstract

Context: As divorce continues to rise as Ireland’s fastest growing marital status, views

towards marriage seem to be altered among young adults in Irish society today. The aim of

the research is to investigate attitudes towards marriage and intentions to marry amongst

young adults. METHODS: Quantitative analysis was the chosen method for this research.

200 participants were used within the analysis, 100 females and 100 males. The participant’s

age ranged from 19-33 years. RESULTS: The analysis revealed that the female sample has

strong intentions to marry someday compared to the male sample. Females also wanted to get

married before males. The analysis also revealed that young adults with divorced or separated

parents do not have a negative attitude towards marriage. CONCLUSION: Both males and

females revealed they intended to marry someday, however, the intention in females was

significantly stronger. Attitudes towards marriage varied slightly amongst both samples.
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1. Introduction

This research project endeavours to investigate young adult’s views towards marriage

in contemporary Irish society today. The proposed aim for this study is to firstly, highlight

and examine differences between genders regarding their attitudes and aspects toward

marriage of young adults, secondly, to identify and investigate if there are gender differences

towards intent to marry and finally, to examine if young adults from divorced or separated

parents have a negative view of marriage.

As there has been a considerable lack of research into the area of gender differences

in attitudes toward marriage in Ireland, this chapter the researcher will undertake a literature

review that will examine marriage in Ireland today, parental influences, pre-marital

cohabitation, attitudes towards marriage, intent to marry and to discuss the Social Learning

Theory as the theoretical framework for this research. This research will also adopt a

quantitative analysis involving four main hypothesis, which will be analysed using SPSS and

will be discussed later in this research.

The meaning of marriage in Ireland has rapidly changed in the past generation.

Historically, marriage was defined as “the voluntary union for life of one man and one

woman to the exclusion of all others” (Penzance, 1896, p24). However, with the

establishment of divorce laws and the introduction of marriage equality for same sex

marriages, the definition of marriage has since then developed. (Giddens, 2012, p331) defines

marriage as “a socially acknowledged and approval sexual union between two adult

individuals. This definition is generally accepted in Irish culture today. Today, Irish couples

are falling out of love with the idea of marriage. The number of couples getting married in

Ireland has fallen in recent years. Based on data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) a

peak of 22,089 registered marriages were recorded in 2005 to 19,855 in 2011, the lowest in
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Ireland for six years. The average age of men and women getting married has risen in recent

years, of 34 years of age for men and 32 years of age for women in 2010 (Central Statistics

Office, 2010) compared with 26 years of age for men and 24 years of age for women in 1970.

(Central Statistics Office, 1970). The traditional pattern of forming a romantic relationship in

contemporary Irish society evolves from dating to engagement and then finally, marriage.

(Manning, Longmore and Giordano, 2007). However, in recent years it has become clear that

this process has become more complicated. Increasingly relationships proceed from dating to

cohabitating together, which in turn, may or may not lead to marriage. (Manning, Longmore

and Giordano, 2007). Furthermore, with the rise of cohabitation amongst couples, it has

become evident that it has replaced marriage as the first union experience for many of young

adults today. (Linchter and Qian, 2008).

The 1970’s and 1980’s saw the beginning of development and change in divorce law

in western countries. Before this era, it was illegal for individuals to leave their union of

marriage. However, the introduction of divorce was to make it legal and easier for individuals

to exit a marriage. (Fahey, 2012). Ireland was one of the last western countries to introduce

divorce; this was due to the power of the Irish Catholic Church and their strong views and

influence on the union of marriage. Therefore, until the divorce legislation was enacted in

1996, divorce was unavailable before then. “Scholars in this field usually interpret the advent

of divorce in 1996 as Irelands ‘big bang’ movement of change for the Irish society….”

(Fahey, 2012). Miles, Heather and Servaty-Seib (2010) found that even though divorce was

once seen as a highly stigmatized event within society, it rapidly became a modern day norm.

The divorce rate in Ireland has risen substantially over the past two decades, with the current

estimate is that over half of couples entering into marriage will eventually end in divorce.

(Miles, Heather and Servaty-Seib, 2010). However, in society today, the divorce rate is now

beginning to slow down among younger couples, although older adult couples are divorcing
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more than ever before. (Miles, Heather and Servaty-Seib, 2010) It can be assumed that a large

number of young adults are experiencing divorce of their parents, which will in turn have an

impact on the formation of their own romantic relationships and future marital status.

Furthermore, marriage is vulnerable in modern society. (Davis-Fine, 2011).The

forever changing views of the family and attitudes towards marriage are being driven by

young adults who have experienced and grown up with unmarried or divorced parents.

Marital attitudes and expectations form a perception of reality about relationships derived by

experience. (Riggio and Weiser, 2008). Throughout an individual’s lifetime, one might form

attitudes and expectations regarding marital life by observing their parents relationship,

through their own romantic experiences or by simply observing the process of courtship and

marriage of others. (Riggio and Weiser, 2008) Highly embedded positive marital attitudes

can influence behaviour and enhance relationships by viewing them as happy and successful

and highly embedded negative marital attitudes can also affect beliefs regarding relationships

and have less positive expectations. (Riggio and Weiser, 2008). Furthermore, in recent years

young adults tend to postpone marriage and in some cases relationships altogether, in

exchange for freedom, independence and more attention given to education and a focus to

their careers within society and to fulfil their own needs as individuals before entering into

marriage. (Davis- Fine, 2011).

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Literature Review

1.1 Marriage in Ireland

To understand a more refined measure of the evolution of marriages in Ireland, it is

relevant to focus on first marriages and the patterns and features of delayed marriages, while

taking into account the increase and decline of male and female populations over time.

(Punch, 2007.) Marriage within Ireland has developed significantly over the past 100 years

especially with the lift of the moral restraint set by the Irish Catholic church on the restriction

of sex before marriage and with the introduction of divorce; therefore, making marriage is

less common today than it was previously. Historically, Irish couples have not always been

slow to marry. (Schellenberg, 1991). In the mid-nineteenth century, the number of individuals

remaining permanently unmarried was not common among the Irish. (Schellenberg, 1991).

As previously stated, there has been a remarkable rise in the ages in which Irish couples are

choosing to get married. The average age of males increased from 26 years to 34 years of

age, while females increased from 24 years to 32 years of age. (CSO, 1970 and 2010).

Moreover, this can be viewed in the light of changes in the underlying population and the

introduction of divorce since 1996, which has had a serious effect on these figures. (Punch,

2007). However, since 1996 there has been a significant increase to the population of both

males (37.5%) and females (30.1%) within the 25-34 year age bracket. (Punch, 2007).

Therefore, leading to the rise in registered marriages compared to that of the mid-1990’s to

the mid-2000. Divorce in Ireland has had a substantial impact on the number of register

marriages. (Punch, 2007). However, 5.6 % of females and 6.5% of males in 2005 were found

to be remarrying following divorce. (Punch, 2007).

Emigration in Ireland during the nineteenth century and now again in the 21st century,

has been the most obvious factor for population decline. Therefore, leading to another
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important factor to delayed marriage and in some cases, permanently unmarried for

individuals in Ireland. (Schellenberg, 1991). In addition to delayed marriages, Irish people

have developed a strong tendency to remain single right up until child bearing years.

(Schellenberg, 1991). This tendency has developed as many different valuable opportunities

have been made more available for men and women within the job sector, education, career

lifestyle and travel with the rise of the Celtic tiger. Couples within this era and beyond

postponed getting married and beginning a family in return for a career and a personal life.

This has become a social norm within Irish society, that it is now considered as

‘characteristically Irish. (Schellenberg, 1991). Research carried out by Schellenberg (1991)

found that Ireland’s trends and patterns to marriage and delayed marriage were similar to

those of other nations within Western Europe. (Schellenberg, 1991). However, the research

found that not only does Ireland have unusually high age marriage rates compared to Western

Europe; it also stands out in international comparisons of higher proportions never marrying

or marrying late. (Schellenberg, 1991). Furthermore, following the fall of the Celtic tiger

economic pressures in Ireland tend to be more severe than anywhere else in Europe. This

explains the knock on effect high levels of emigration has had on the high rates of delayed

marriage in Ireland. (Schellenberg, 1991).

1.2 Attitudes towards Marriage

Throughout the world and amongst many different cultures, attitudes towards

marriage are diverse. Based on to a poll completed by Bharsakhale (2013), almost half of

young unmarried Americans between 20-29 years would choose to have marriage abolished

and many agreed that marriage is only for people ready to spend the rest of their lives

together.(Bharsakhale, 2013). As divorce has become a modern-day norm in recent years, it

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is expected that the present–day young adult tends to have a distrust of marriage as an

institution. Shurts and Myers (2011) stated that individuals develop their attitudes based on a

variety of experiences, including messages received from the family, the media, religious

values and groups of friends.

According to Akers – woody (2004) positive parental and family dynamics are related

to more positive attitudes to marriage. A study by Riggio and Weiser (2008) which was a

replication of a study of that of Prislin and Ovellette (1996) showed that more embedded

marriage attitudes are more predictive of evaluations of general marriage issues and

relationship scenarios than less embedded attitudes. Attitudes towards marriage are

influenced by many other factors in society, such as divorce, culture and religion. (Akers-

Woody, 2004) Therefore, it is not surprising that attitudes toward marriage can be both

positive and negative depending of the experience of the individual. People come with

different opinions. Bharsakharte (2013), found that in modern society today, individuals are

against marriage, as it considered an old concept and way of life that is no longer workable in

today’s complex world.(Bharsakharte, 2013). It is important to view marriage as both

positive and negative.

For many people who get married, they marry for companionship so they do not have

to go through life alone. (Bharsakharte. 2013).Statistics have shown for this reason, that

people who get married live longer than individuals who do not marry. (Bharsakharte, 2013).

Other studies have shown that children who have grown up with their parents married

perform better in education and in other aspects of their live in general. (Akers – Woody,

2004).

Marriage can then have many outcomes, one of many being divorce. Divorce and

separation of couples will bring with it some trauma and many issues, as well for the
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children. The negative side of marriage may alter children’s attitudes toward marriage.

Research within the area of martial attitudes among young adults in respect to gender

differences, has produced conflicting results. Research by, Braaten and Rosén (1998) and

Larson, Benson, Wilson and Medora (1998) found no gender differences in marital attitudes

among young adults. Research by Klein (2006) found that female undergraduate students’

attitudes to marriage were more positive than male undergraduates.

Studies involving the intergenerational transmission of marital attitudes have had

more similar results. Larson, Benson, Wilson and Medora (1998) and Valerian (2002) found

that negative factors, such as substantial parental conflict and low parental happiness are both

related to more negative attitudes towards marriage among their children. Tejpreet and Bawa

(1999) revealed that both males and females had positive attitudes towards marriage, there

was no difference. The researchers went deeper into the attitudes of the participants toward

marriage, stating that 60% of males and 37% of females felt that they will lose their

independence after getting married. Amongst males and females 55% and 77% respectively,

want to get married for emotional security, while, 95% of males and 87% of females want to

get married to satisfy the feeling of fatherhood and motherhood respectively. Finally, 52% of

males and 57% of females admitted that it is not a necessity to get married. (Tejpreet and

Bawa, 1999). Furthermore, in theory marriage is supposed to be for life. However, as in

recent years, many individuals never live up to their vows. Marriage, if nothing else, is

complex. (Tejpreet and Bawa, 1999).

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1.3 Parental Influences

As previously stated above, parental influence towards their children’s attitudes to

marriage is extremely significant. “Research has shown that experiences in families of origin,

particularly parental distress and divorce, can have significant effects upon young people’s

future relationship attitudes and experiences.” (Weigel, 2007, p.11). The family is the starting

point where individuals learn about the importance of relationship aspects such as love,

honesty, respect and communication. (Crittenden, 1997). Learning of these aspects all

depends on the environment an individual is brought up in, stable or unstable families.

Through these experiences, individuals learn important variety of lessons, directly and

indirectly about relationships and what they are meant to like. Based on a study (Moon, 2011)

stated that when an individual in personally involved in a parental divorce, the individuals

ego will have a strong effects on personal beliefs regarding marriage. The future marital

status of an individual relies heavily on their perceptions and beliefs from their parents’

marriage or divorce. (Moon, 2011). According to Shurts and Myers (2011) they suggested

that “it is not surprising that attitudes and behaviours, both positive and negative, are often

conveyed through generations within the families in a process called intergenerational

transmission”.( Shurts and Myers, 2011, p. 99). An intergenerational transmission is where

attitudes, behaviours, values, morals and relationship outcomes can be passed from families

to children. Intergenerational transmission has constantly, over time, been used to explain the

link of family experience and later attitudes about and experience in romantic relationships.

According to Amato (1996) adult children who have divorced parents are more prone to

problems, conflict, unstable relationships and a lack of trust within their own relationships.

According to Dennison and Koerner (2008) many studies concluded within the area of

marital attitudes found significant differences in attitudes towards marriage between young
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adults from intact and divorced families. These studies found that young adults from divorced

families were found to feel anxious, fearful and pessimistic about their own future

relationships or marital status. (Dennison and Koerner, 2008). Furthermore, young adults

who have experienced parental divorce generally fear being hurt from romantic relationships

and are found to be apprehensive about possible break-up of their future marriages.

(Dennison and Koerner, 2008). Research by Webster, Orbuch and House, (1995) found that

adult children from divorced parents have a tendency to view their own marriages, future

marriages and relationships as unstable compared to adult children whose parents are still

married. (Webster, Orbuch and House, 1995). Amato and DeBeers (2011) found that one

clear factor that distinguishes individuals from divorced and non- divorced parents, is that

adult children of divorce tend to have weakened commitment to making relationships work.

These children of divorce have gained messages from their parents, such as relationships are

not permanent, approach relationships with caution and that relationships will be affected by

infidelity and lack of trust. (Amato and DeBeers, 2011). Therefore, those individuals will be

less familiar with the happiness in relationships, love, trust and the respect individuals can

have in relationships.

However, other studies (Amato, 1988) and (Carson and Pauly, 1990) found few

differences between young adults attitudes from intact and divorced families regarding their

own marital status, these studies expressed that there are other contributing factors to positive

and negative attitudes towards marriage not just parental marital status. (Dennison and

Korner, 2008) Moreover, there have been ample studies that have shown a link of the

intergenerational transmission process and marital attitudes based on parental status. Shurts

and Myers (2011) stated that even though the family has been found to be the most influential

mechanism where individual’s attitudes, values and morals towards marriage and

relationships are formed; there have also been many other contributing factors that have
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found to be just as influential as the family. Research has been conducted to find out the other

influential factors; these included, friends (Bourgeois and Bowen, 2001), the mass media

(Segrin and Nabi, 2002) and social institutions such as schools, religious and non-religious

organisation (Thomsen and Rekve, 2003). All of these factors have resulted in affecting

young adult’s perceptions and attitudes towards marriage and have immense influence. Shurts

and Myers (2011) believed that by examining different types of messages received by

individuals regarding the union of marriage, it may be possible to distinguish and identify the

long term impact on such influences on marital attitudes and future marital status. (Shurts and

Myers, 2011).

1.4 Pre-Martial Cohabitation

During the past decade, researchers have focused their attention to family changes,

non-traditional family forms and ever growing current trends. (Kasearu, 2010). One such

focus is that of unmarried cohabitation or pre-marital cohabitation. As cohabitation has

become widely accepted within western society, the number of children born outside of

marriage has rapidly risen. (Kasearu, 2010). According to the Social Learning Theory,

children from unmarried cohabitating parents will have a negative impact on their marital

future. (Kasearu, 2010). However, although cohabitation has become widely accepted today,

it can be seen as an equal partner to marriage. (Kasearu, 2010).

Pre- marital cohabitation is on the rise within society and is viewed favourably by many

college students. (Trotter, 2010). According to figures from the CSO, the number of

cohabitating couples in Ireland in 2006 was 29,322 compared to 40,022 in 2011. (Central

Statistics Office, 2011).The rise of cohabitation can be viewed as a threat to traditional

marriage in modern times. Davis-Fine (2011) stated that people see marriage as involving
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more commitment than cohabitation, but cohabitation is widely accepted and seen as a step in

a progression towards marriage. Recent estimates from the USA indicated that 54% of first

union’s begin with cohabitation and 56% of those aged 19-44 years who married had

previously cohabitated. (Lichter and Qian, 2008).

According to Davis-Fine (2011) the widespread acceptance of cohabitation can be

explained “by the fact that the vast majority (85%) believes that the religious reasons for

marriage have become less important”. (Davis-Fine, 2011, p7.) Cohabitation is far less

stigmatized in society today than it was over three decades ago. Davis-Fine (2011) found that

84% of people believe that it is better to live with someone before marrying them, in

particular younger adults found this statement to be true. In modern – day society, it is

believed that pre-martial cohabitation is an ideal way to get to know your partner and in

doing so will lead to a healthier and stronger marriage. However, much of the research has

not supported this statement. Based on a study by Lichter and Qian (2008) fertility rates are

low among cohabitating couples and more importantly marriages that evolve from

cohabitation are more likely to end in divorce. Lichter, Qian and Mellott (2006) reported that

within disadvantaged and minority couples, marriage rates are low; small portions (5.3%) of

disadvantaged couples end in marriage, majority of cohabiting couples fail to succeed in that

relationship.(Licher and Qian, 2008). However, some couples decide to cohabit instead of

getting married as they are unsure of the future of that relationship. Cherlin, Burton, Hurt

and Puruin (2005) stated that cohabiters could very well have mental health conditions, such

as depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder that can impact immensely to their

ability to stay in relationships that lead to healthy committed marriages. Kline (2006) found

that couples who did cohabite before engagement of marriage reported more negative

reactions, lower confidence in the relationship, and poorer relationship quality than those who

did not cohabite before marriage. According to Cunningham and Antill (1995) pre–martial
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cohabitation is linked to poor martial communication. In addition, couples who cohabitated

before marriage are also more likely to divorce than couples who did not cohabitate.

1.5 Intent to Marry

As previously stated, unmarried cohabitation is rapidly on the rise in Ireland.

Therefore it is important to distinguish between individuals who are more inclined and intend

to marry than individuals who choose to cohabitate. Kasearu (2010) stated that current

research has found that there are two main factors that are the basis in distinguishing between

individuals who choose to cohabitate and individuals who choose marriage. Cohabitation was

found to be selective of people who were from a lower socioeconomic background. (Smock,

2000). Research within this area has found that marriage is more common among people who

are economically better and who have a higher education. (Kasearu, 2010). Another factor

found by Smock (2000) was value based. Individuals who were more liberal, less religious,

paid less attention to traditional family values and behaviours and also encouraged equal

gender roles were found to be more in favour of cohabitating instead of marriage. (Smock,

2000).

According to Kasearu (2010) the decision making process of how an individual

chooses between different types of family formations and romantic relationships is unclear.

However, the choice between cohabitation and marriage is an outcome of the process of

decision making. (Kasearu, 2010). A theory by Fishbein and Ajzen (1975) was developed to

analyse this process, the theory is known as reasoned action. According to the reasoned

action theory, individuals act in compliance with their intentions, although, these intentions

are in fact influenced by attitudes toward behaviours of a situation, ones perception of the

norms controlling the behaviour of that situation and finally, an individual to act in
 17

accordance to these norms. (Fishbein and Ajzen, 1975). Furthermore, Fishbein and Ajzen

(1975) rejected that socioeconomic status, age, sex, education or religion had any influence

on how an individual chooses between marriage and unmarried cohabitation.

Kasearu (2010) believes in the Fishbein and Ajens (1975) theory and suggests that

intentions to cohabitate or to marry are influenced by the perceived opinion of that of

significant others to the individual, such as the individuals family values and expectations

towards the family. (Kasearu, 2010). The intent to marry or to cohabitate as an unmarried

couple is based on the individuals evaluation of union types. (Kasearu, 2010). A study

conducted by Liefbroer and de Jong Gierveld (1994) established the differentiation of three

classes of examination to this. Firstly, the family formation plans need to link the functions in

other life areas, secondly, the relationship with the romantic partner and thirdly, the opinions

of significant others to the individual. (Liefbroer and de Jong Gierveld, 1994).

Sassler and Schoen (1999) stated that gender cannot distinguish between individuals

wanting to marry or cohabitate. However, intentions to marry or cohabitate could be found to

be different. Furthermore, studies have shown that women tend to favour marriage more than

men and also that woman’s expectations to marry are higher, this may be because women are

more family orientated. (Sassler and Schoen, 1999). Based on a study by Blakemore, Lawton

and Vartanian (2005) married individuals of both genders are classed more favourably within

society than unmarried individuals. Blakemore, Lawton and Vartanian (2005) found that

women appear to deal with social pressures to marry, although this is not the case for males.

However, some women were found to enjoy there single life and the freedom to fully focus

on their personal life and careers, while other women were found to feel anxiety and

pressures from their family and society to marry and have a family. (Blakemore, Lawton and

Vartanian, 2005).
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Furthermore, as the normal aging processes decreases fertility in both men and

women, there is no time limit on men’s ability to have children, the same cannot be said for

women, therefore creating extra pressures for women to marry. (Blakemore, Lawton and

Vartanian, 2005). Moreover, Blakemore Lawton and Vartanian (2005) found that when both

genders were asked if they would choose marriage or a career, female college students (38%)

were more likely to pick marriage compared to male college students (18%). Liefbroer and de

Jong Gierveld (1994) stated that the intentions to stay single or to marry did not depend on

gender. They believed that this was due to the fact that women today have gained better

career opportunities and have excelled with their financial independence compared to

decades ago. Therefore, the intent to marry is not as important anymore. (Liefbroer and de

Jong Gierveld, 1994). However, it can be assumed that young adults who are in a committed

relationship already or who live with a romantic partner have some experience, therefore their

intent to marry or intent to cohabitate as an unmarried couple may be different from

individuals who have no romantic partner. (Kasearu, 2010).

Bumpass and Lu (1999) stated that cohabitating couples and married couples differ

according to education level. It can then be assumed that education has an influence on the

intention to marry among individuals. (Bumpass and Lu, 1999). The impact of economic

circumstances in regards to intent to marry has had an effect. A research conducted by Smock

and Manning (1997) found that men’s economics circumstances are more important

indicators to marriage compared to a women’s. Although, it can also be assumed that women

who come from a low economic background would prefer to marry with the idea that

marriage brings traditional values such as the male as the breadwinner. (Smock and Manning,

1997). In addition, parent’s expectation towards their child’s family forming behaviour has

been found to have a direct influence on the child’s actual behaviour. (Kasearu, 2010). The

socialisation process can have long term impact on young adult’s intentions to marry.
 19

However, during the socialisation process, children adopt their parent’s views and values

which in turn, can influence the formation of marriage. (Kasearu, 2010). Kasearu (2010) also

believes that the child’s opinions about their parent’s attitudes towards marriage can have

some effect on their intent to marry. Finally, groups of friends within an individual’s life can

impact on their intentions to marry and to form and family. It can be assumed that young

adults take their friend opinions into account regarding issues such as partner selection and

family forming. (Kasearu, 2010). Liefbroer and de Jong Gierveld (1994) found that groups of

friends opinions can be important to an individual in two ways. First, members of one group

can share certain attitudes and values; from this they can develop their intentions towards

marriage. Secondly, the intention of an individual can be evaluated by the reaction from their

friends in a positive or negative way. (Liefbroer and de Jong Gierveld, 1994). In attrition,

there are many factors that influence an individual’s intentions to marry; it may be one factor

or a combination of them all.

1.6 Social Learning Theory

This research used Social learning theory as the theoretical framework. The social

learning theory states that learning occurs within a social context. (Bandura, 1977).

According to Bandura this theory includes observational learning, imitation and modelling,

individuals mirror their behaviour based on the behaviours of others within their social

environment. (Manning, Cohen and Smock, 2011). However, individuals do not merely

assimilate their social environments, but are more inclined to model the behaviours they find

to be positive and avoid behaviours they find to be negative. According to the social learning

theory, the initial and most important socialisation environment is the family. (Manning,
 20

Cohen and Smock, 2011). For example, social learning theory suggests that children’s

behaviours model that of their parent’s behaviour and by observing parental relationships.

(Manning, Cohen and Smock, 2011). Furthermore, family experiences have been expected to

shape a young adults relationship preferences. However, although this is accurate, parental

views do not simply transfer to that of the young adult. As a result, young adults may not act

in accordance of their parent’s views and behaviours. (Manning, Cohen and Smock, 2011).

Instead young adults also incorporate their own beliefs from their own romantic relationships

and peers in relation to their own attitudes towards marriage. (Manning, Cohen and Smock,

2011). Moreover, the social learning theory has generally been applied to the examination of

the child or teenage behaviour, but has not incorporated young adult behaviour. (Manning,

Cohen and Smock, 2011). Arnett (2004) stated that young adulthood is a life course which is

characterised by identity, exploration, instability, self-focus and possibilities. However,

young adults are expected to depend on experiences derived from their peers and romantic

relationships to make decisions. Arnett (2004) found that 18–22 year olds still rank their

parents approval higher than romantic relationships and their peers in how important it is to

gain their approval. Therefore, relationship decisions in young adulthood are influenced by

social environment and family members rather than other life courses. (Arnett, 2004).
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Aims and Objectives

The aim of the current research is to investigate if young adult’s views of marriage

have altered as divorce continues to rise as Ireland’s fastest growing marital status. Many

young adults today have grown up witnessing and observing divorce, separation and lone

parent families within Irish culture. Therefore, positive and healthy marital views can suffer

for young adults. The research aims to examine the differences between genders of young

adults regarding their attitudes and aspects toward marriage. It also aims to examine their

intent to marry. Finally, this research aims to investigate if young adults from divorce or

separated parents have a negative view of marriage.

Hypothesis

Hypothesis 1: Females will intend on getting married at a particular time before males.

Hypothesis 2: Females will be more intent on getting married compared to males

Hypothesis 3: There will be gender differences in a sample of undergraduate students

regarding their attitudes towards marriage.

Hypothesis 4: Young adults of divorced or separated parents will have a negative attitude

towards marriage.
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2. Methodology

2.1 Participants

The overall number of individuals who participated in this research study was 200

participants (n=200). A convenient sample, including 100 undergraduate males (n=100) and

100 undergraduate females (n=100) comprised the sample. The age ranged from 19-33 years.

The mean age of male participants was M = 23.15 (SD = 2.44) and the mean age of female

participants was M = 22.55 (SD = 2.65). Of the total combined sample, (54%) of participants

parents were married, (9%) were separated, (21%) were divorced, (9%) never married and

(6.5%) were stated as ‘other’. The participants of this study were selected from within the

premises of a third level college in Dublin. The population was normally distributed within

the college. Nobody was excluded from this study.

2.2 Materials

A questionnaire booklet was distributed, in which, participants were instructed to fill

in. The questionnaire booklet included (A) The General Attitudes to Marriage Scale (GAMS),

(Park and Rosén, 2013), (B) The Attitude towards Marriage Scale (ATMS), (Park and Rosén,

2013) and (C) The Intent to Marry Scale (IMS), (Park and Rosén, 2013). In addition,

participants were asked to complete some demographic questions, such as, gender, age,

highest education level and parents marital status. A number of self-administered questions

regarding an individual’s views of marriage such as “ Adult children of divorce are less likely

to get married”, “ The main purpose of getting married is to have children” and “There are
 23

more advantages to being single then there is to being married” were also added to the

questionnaire booklet. (Appendix)

(A) The General Attitudes towards Marriage Scale (Park & Rosén, 2013) was developed

to access and measure overall positive and negative attitudes towards of the institution

of marriage. The scale was developed to also access the attitudes of both married and

non-married individuals. It focuses on personal and global levels of idealised beliefs,

fears and doubts towards marriage. The scale includes 10 items regarding feelings

(positive attitudes, negative attitudes, fears and doubts) towards an individual’s

current or future marriage. (E.g. marriage is a “good idea”). Every question is

presented with a 5 –point Likert scale, ranging from, (1) Strongly Agree, (2) Agree,

(3) Neither Agree nor Disagree, (4) Disagree, (5) Strongly Disagree. Scores can range

between 17 and 38 with higher scores indicating a more negative attitude towards

marriage.

(B) The Aspects of Marriage Scale (Park & Rosén, 2013) was developed to access

different domains of marriage, including trust, shared values, fulfilment, sexual

intimacy, emotional support, respect, finances, romance, commitment, fidelity and

communication. The scale includes 18 items exploring different aspects of a marital

relationship. (E.g. romance is important for a successful marriage). Every question is

presented with a 5- point Likert scale, ranging from, (1) Strongly Agree, (2) Agree,

(3) Neither Agree nor Disagree, (4) Disagree, (5) Strongly Disagree. Scores can range

between 30 and 54 with higher scores indicating negative views for aspects to

marriage.

(C) The Intent to Marry Scale (Park & Rosén, 2013) was developed to access individuals

overall intent to marry. The scale includes 3 items regarding individual’s positive and

negative views on intent to marry. (E.g. I intend to get married someday). Every
 24

question is presented with a 5- Likert scale, ranging from, (1) Strongly Agree, (2)

Agree, (3) Neither Agree nor Disagree, (4) Disagree, (5) Strongly Disagree. Scores

can range between 6 and 14 with higher scores indicating less intention to marry.

2.3 Design

The design used in this present research was a non-experimental correlational

quantitative design. The independent variable was gender and the dependant variable was

attitudes towards marriage and intent to marry.

2.4 Procedure

Data collection was collected through the use of questionnaires. The content and

structure of the questionnaires was checked by the research supervisor to ensure the

questionnaires were efficient and suitable for distribution. An approval was given by the

supervisor before questionnaires were distributed to participants. Research was conveniently

conducted within the Dublin Business School campus. Questionnaires were distributed to

participants in classrooms, with the permission of relevant lecturers and within the canteen

areas to complete anonymous research questionnaires. Prior to the completion of the

questionnaires, every participant was informed about the purpose of the study, its voluntary

nature, made aware of all ethical considerations, such as anonymity and privacy and were

assured of confidentially at all times. In addition, their right to withdraw from the study at

any time and the researchers contact information, should there be any problems, was also

addressed. The questionnaire booklets were only distributed to participants 18 years and

above. Filling in the questionnaire booklet took approximately 5-10 minutes. Once the
 25

questionnaires were completed, they were collected by the researcher and inserted into an

envelope to ensure anonymity. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences Software

(SPSS 21) was used to input the data, recode and compute data to comprise the total score

and to analyse the results given from the questionnaire to test the hypotheses. Descriptive

statistics were used to run frequencies and were used to analyse differences and similarities

between various groups. Independent t-test analysis were used to test gender differences in

relation to attitudes towards marriage and to test negative attitudes towards marriage between

individuals whose parents were married or divorced/separated.

2.5 Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations were enforced throughout the entire research project.

Participants were assured of confidentially at all times. They were made aware of their right

to withdraw from the study at any stage and also assured that all their answers would remain

strictly anonymous. For ethical reason, the researcher only used participants 18 years of age

and above.
 26

3. Results

3.1 Descriptive Statistics

Hypothesis 1:

Hypothesis one proposed that females will intend on getting married at a particular

time before males. As shown from the pie charts below (Figure 1 & Figure 2), there are

differences between the time scale of wanting to marry and gender. (3%) of males wanting to

marry in the next 1-2 year compared to (4%) of females, in the next 3-4 years (6%) males

compared to (21%) females, in the next 5-6 years (17%) of males compared to (34%)

females, in the next 7-9 years (34%) of males compared to (24%) of females, in the next 10+

years (29%) of males compared to (11%) of females and finally, (11%) of males indicated

they would never like to marry compared to (6%) of females. In summary, (26%) of males

compared to (59%) of females intend to marry within the next 6 years. The results indicate

that more females compared to males intend on getting married at a particular time.

Therefore, hypothesis one was only partially supported.

27
 28

Hypothesis 2:

Hypothesis two proposed that females will be more intent on getting married

compared to males. As shown in the bar charts below (Figure 3 & Figure 4), there are

differences between stronger intent on marrying of both male (25%) and females (42%).

(Table 1). There were only slight differences between the two groups; therefore hypothesis

three was only partially supported.

Table 1: Participants Intent to get married

Cumulative Per
Gender of Participant Frequency Per cent Valid Per cent
cent

Strongly Agree 25 25.0 25.0 25.0

Agree 45 45.0 45.0 70.0

Neither agree or disagree 19 19.0 19.0 89.0

Male Valid
Disagree 8 8.0 8.0 97.0

Strongly disagree 3 3.0 3.0 100.0

Total 100 100.0 100.0

Strongly Agree 42 42.0 42.0 42.0

Agree 39 39.0 39.0 81.0

Neither agree or disagree 13 13.0 13.0 94.0

Female Valid
Disagree 4 4.0 4.0 98.0

Strongly disagree 2 2.0 2.0 100.0

Total 100 100.0 100.0

29
 30

3.2 Inferential Statistics

T-test Analysis

Hypothesis 3:

Hypothesis three proposed that there would be differences in attitudes towards

marriage between males and females. This hypothesis was examined using Independent t-test

analysis. The Independent t-test showed that there was a significant difference in total

attitudes towards marriage mean scores for males and females t(198) = 2.67, p < .05.

Attitudes towards marriage differed significantly between males (M = 49.70, SD = 8.72.) and

females ( M= 46.47, SD = 8.31.) (Table 2.) Therefore, the hypothesis was supported.

Table 2: Total Means and SD for Males and Females

Positive and Negative Attitudes towards Marriage
Gender of Participant Mean N Std. Deviation

Male 49.7000 100 8.7217

Female 46.4700 100 8.31872

Total 48.0850 200 8.65519

 31

Hypothesis 4:

Hypothesis four proposed that individuals from a divorced or separated family will

have a negative attitude towards marriage. This hypothesis was examined using Independent

t-test analysis. The Independent t-test showed that there was no significant difference in total

attitudes towards marriage for individuals whose parents were divorced t(40) = .467, p >.05

or parents that were separated t(16) = 1.71, p >.05.

Attitudes towards marriage did not differ significantly due to parental divorce or

separation between males and females. Divorce: males (N=21) (M = 56.47, SD = 8.50),

females (N = 21) (M = 53.95, SD = 9.74). Separated: males (N = 8) (M = 56.25, SD = 6.45)

females (N = 10) (M= 51.30, SD = 5.03). See Table 3. Therefore, the fourth hypothesis was

rejected.

Table 3: Total Mean and SD for Individuals Parents Marital Status

Gender of
Parents Marital Status Mean N Std. Deviation
Participant
Male 46.6727 55 7.01336
Married Female 43.0556 54 5.94762
Total 44.8807 109 6.72712
Male 56.2500 8 6.45313
Separated Female 51.3000 10 5.03433
Total 53.5000 18 6.08034
Male 56.4762 21 8.50658
Divorced Female 53.0952 21 9.74631
Total 54.7857 42 9.19580
Male 46.0000 10 7.28774
Never Married Female 48.2500 8 10.56612
Total 47.0000 18 8.68399
Male 51.1667 6 11.83920
Other Female 44.0000 7 5.97216
Total 47.3077 13 9.49021
 32

4. Discussion

Introduction

This present research was carried out in order to analyses if young adult’s views

towards marriage have altered as divorce continues to rise as Ireland’s fastest growing marital

status. The aim of this present research was to investigate if there was a gender difference in

attitudes towards marriage in contemporary Irish society today. The research examined if

females have more intentions to marry compared to males and also if they intended to get

married at a particular time before males. Finally, this present research investigated if young

adults who have divorced or separated parents will have a negative view towards marriage.

This research carried out using 100 females and 100 males with age ranging from 19-33 years

respectively. The questionnaire used included the Intent to Marry Scale (IMS) (Park and

Rosén, 2013), the General Attitudes to Marriage Scale (GMS) (Park and Rosén, 2013) and

the Aspects of Marriage Scale (AMS) (Park and Rosén, 2013).

4.1 Discussion of the Results

Hypothesis 1

One of the four main predictions of this present research was that females will intend

on getting married at a particular time before males. The results obtained indicated a

significant main difference in gender, suggesting that a sample of females do intend on

getting married at a particular time before a sample of males. Results from this present

research, show that majority (34%) of the female sample would like to get married within 5-6
 33

years compared to (17%) of the male sample within 5-6 years. In addition, less of the female

sample (6%) stated that they would never marry compared to (11%) of the male sample.

Therefore the hypothesis was supported, that a sample of females would intend on

getting married before a sample of males at a particular time. These findings partially support

the reason action theory (Fishbein and Ajzen, 1975), which argues that individuals act in

compliance with their intentions, which are influenced by attitudes towards behaviours of a

situation, perception of the norms controlling the behaviour of that situation and the

individual acting in accordance to these norms. This theory rejected that socioeconomic

status, age, sex or education had any influence on an individual’s intentions to marry at a

particular time. (Fishbein and Ajzen, 1975). These present findings also supported previous

research that demonstrated a sample of females having stronger intentions to marry at a

particular time than a sample of males. (Blakemore, Lawton and Vartanian, 2005). These

findings are in line with the findings from this present research, this is probably because

females feel pressures to start a family before their fertility is in jeopardy. (Blakemore,

Lawton and Vartanian, 2005). Furthermore, these present findings suggest that there are

gender differences regarding getting married at a particular time. However, these results go

against previous research that states that an intention to marry at a particular time does not

depend on gender. (Liefbroer and de Jong Gierveld, 1994). This is probably due to the fact

that women today have better career opportunities open to them and financial independence

compared to decades ago, which can be assumed that marriage would be postponed in life for

women, as suggested by Liefbroer and de Jong Gierveld (1994).

 34

Hypothesis 2

Hypothesis two proposed that females will be more intent on getting married

compared to males. The results from the present research indicated a vast difference for

gender, indicating that intending to marry was significantly higher amongst the female

sample (42%) compared to the males sample (25%), who ‘strongly agreed’ to getting married

someday. Therefore the hypothesis was only partially supported that there would be

differences in gender regarding intent to marry. These findings support previous research

concluded by Blakemore, Lawton and Vartanian (2005), findings from this study identified

that a sample of females had a higher ‘drive to marry’ compared to a sample of males.

Blakemore, Lawton and Vartanian (2005) argues that females feel more anxiety and

pressures from family member and social groups to marry and begin a family, the research

found that this was not the case for males.

These present findings suggest that females are more intent to marry compared to

males; this is in line with findings of a study concluded by Sassler and Scohen (1999). This is

probably because females favour marriage more than males as they are more family

orientated, as suggested by Sassler and Scohen (1999). However, these findings also support

findings from present research, that a sample of females and males both had significant

differences attitudes and aspects towards marriage, which will be discussed later.

Furthermore, according to research carried out by Bumpass and Lu (1999), this research

discovered that intentions to marry did not depend on gender, but according to the

individual’s education level amongst both genders. The findings from this study suggest that

the higher education level of the individual the more intentions they will have to marry.

(Bumpass and Lu, 1999). The findings from this study correspond with the results from the

present study. So perhaps by individuals not receiving a high education level or any

education at all, they are possibly sacrificing their future marital status. The impact of
 35

economic circumstances has had an effect on females and males intent to marry, Smock and

Manning (1997) found that females from low-economic background would be more intent to

marry compared to males, as Smock and Manning (1997) suggested, this is probably because

females would have an idea that marriage brings traditional values such as the male as the

breadwinner. However, present findings were similar to these gender difference findings,

although the researcher of the present research did not test for individual’s economic

background.

Hypothesis 3

Hypothesis three proposed that there would be gender difference in attitudes towards

marriage between males and females. The results obtained indicated a significant difference

in gender, indicating total attitudes towards marriage were significantly higher compared to

the male sample; therefore the hypothesis was supported, stating that there would be gender

differences in attitudes towards marriage. These findings add to the already existing body of

conflicting results amongst research in relation to gender difference of marital attitudes.

These present findings reject the findings of Shurts and Myers (2011), which argues that

present day young adults have a distrust of the union of marriage. Results from current

research, suggest that females (M=49.70, SD 8.72) have a stronger positive attitude towards

marriage, therefore rejecting the findings of Shurts and Myers (2011). This can also be

compared to the findings of Kline (1996). This is probably because females still view the

roles of both career women and married mother more favourably and of more importance and

also to have significant importance to anticipating a marital identity, which is not the case

compared to that of males, as suggested by Blakemore, Lawton and Vartanian (2005).

However, a study carried out by Tejpreet and Bawa (1999) found there to be no gender
 36

difference in attitudes to marriage. The researchers examined these attitudes deeper, by using

in-depth interview analysis. Results from this research found that both positive and negative

attitudes surrounding family life and marriage were of no difference in gender among young

adults. The formation of attitudes surrounding marriage can often change throughout one’s

lifetime, therefore making it difficult to make a generalisation for young adults attitudes, each

individual is unique of their own experience shaping their attitudes and difference in gender

is generally of no concern, as suggested by Tejpreet and Bawa (1999).

Hypothesis 4

Hypothesis four predicted that young adults from divorce or separated parents would

have a negative attitude towards marriage. Statistical calculations did not support hypothesis

four, suggesting that young adults with divorced or separated parents would not have a

negative attitude towards marriage. These findings did not support the Social Learning

Theory (Bandura, 1977), which argues that individuals mirror their behaviour based on the

behaviours of others within their social environment, for example their parents and their

marital relationships. Therefore, shaping young adults attitudes to relationships and future

marital status. However, it is not logical to assume that just the social learning theory can

shape an individual’s marital attitudes, there will be other contributing factors, and one’s

personal and unique to the individual. The findings of this research suggest that there is no

difference in marital attitudes amongst males and females from intact and divorced or

separated families; this is in line with findings of Amato (1988) and Carson and Pauly (1990).

Reason for this can be because of other contributing influential factors to an individual’s

marital attitudes, not just parental marital status. These factors can include friends, media,

social institutions such as schools, religious and non-religious organisations and social media.
 37

(Bourgeois and Bowen, 2011; Segrin and Nabi, 2002; Thomsen and Rekve, 2003). By

examining different types of messages and influences received by young adults from all

factors within one’s life, it may be possible to distinguish and identify the long term impact

of such factors and influences they have on a young adult’s marital attitudes and future

marital status, as suggested by Shurts and Myers (2011).

However, findings from this present research did not correspond with other researches

within the area of marital attitudes. Amato (1996) argues that young adults from divorced

parents are more prone to problems, conflict, unstable relationships and a lack of trust within

their own relationships. Young adults from divorced parents were found to feel anxious,

fearful and pessimistic about their own future relationships and marital status; they also fear

being hurt from romantic relationships and are apprehensive about possible breakups of their

future marriages, as suggested by Dennison and Koerner (2008). This is probably because

these young adults observed their parental divorce within a certain stage of adolescent hood

as they were beginning to form their own romantic relationships. (Dennison and Koerner,

2008). The Social Learning theory predicts that individuals mirror the behaviour and actions

of that of their parents (Manning, Cohen and Smock, 2011) and the family have been found

to be the most influential to an individual, so perhaps by actively controlling what the

children are subjected to and what they observe during parental divorce, as suggested by

Shurts and Myers (2011) this can limit the influences and negatives attitudes and views of a

young adults relationships and future marital status.

 38

Limitations of the present research

As with all studies, there were a few limitations to this present research carried out.

The distribution of the questionnaire raised a limitation, that all of the participants were only

from Dublin Business School, therefore these present results can only account for that on

third level college in Dublin. The sample of data collected cannot be generalised to all college

students elsewhere.

Another limitation was the age range of participants used. The age rang was between

19 and 33, the minority of that sample was individuals in their late 20’s to 33. As research

indicated, intent to marry and positive attitudes towards marriage increases with age, a

broader age sample would have benefited this research.

Furthermore, the marital questions used for Intent to Marry Scale (IMS) (Park and

Rosén, 2013), General Attitudes towards Marriage Scale (GAMS) (Park and Rosén, 2013)

and aspects of marriage (AMS). (Park and Rosén, 2013) was found to be another limitation,

the questions asked within the scales were too basic and broad, which made it difficult to

gather a more accurate and deep understanding of each individuals unique attitudes and views

towards marriage.

Finally, the quantitative research design chosen by the researcher was also another

limitation. This was found as the participants were limited to their choice of answers. As

previously stated, to gather a more enriched understanding of young adult’s attitudes and

views towards marriage unique to their own experiences, this research would have benefited

from a qualitative in-depth interview procedure. The results may have been the same, but a

better understanding as to why they are a certain way would have been explored.
 39

Future Research

In terms of future research, the limitations stated above should be considered and

applied. Changes to the sample data should be made, a random sample should be sought to

gain a more generalised finding amongst participants nationwide, such as urban and rural and

not just focusing on Dublin alone.

For future research, it would also be important to incorporate young adults who do not

attend college or any form of education, who could be employed or unemployed and also

young adults who do not live at home with their parents. According to Smock and Manning

(1997), individuals who have an education or in the process of obtaining one, will have

substantial differences in attitudes towards marriage and intentions to marry compared to

individuals who do not have an education. A comparison of both would be of benefit.

Another recommended comparative study future researchers should consider is to

include a sample of young adults and mature adults as participants, to investigate, compare

and contrast the differences and similarities of both generations. This would be useful to

identify how and if the attitude toward the union of marriage has changed over the years. In

order to get a more in-depth information and better understanding of this research, a

qualitative approach would be suggested for further research carried out in this area.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the view of the union of marriage has and is still changing within

contemporary Irish society. Statistics from the CSO (2011) showed that marriage in Ireland

has declined substantially, showing that only 19,855 marriages in Ireland in 2011. However,

this research has supported its first and second hypothesis, indicating that males and females

intend and want to marry in the future, the minority (4%) of females and (6%) males stating
 40

that they would never intend to marry. Therefore revealing that young adults still value the

idea of marriage and consider it important, in spite of divorce rapidly growing as Ireland

fastest growing marital status.

Furthermore, females showed stronger intent to marry compared to that of males, as

previously mentioned in the literature review, females still feel pressures from their family

and social groups to marry. This would suggest that the traditional trend of females holding a

higher regard for marriage still exists within Irish society today.

In relation to divorce, it is expected that a large proportion of young adults today are

experiencing parental divorce. As suggesting earlier in the literature review, society would

generally expect that children of divorce to have a negative attitude towards marriage or no

intentions to marry in the future. Previous research have conflicting views on the subject,

suggesting that it is quite difficult to narrow down an individual’s attitude and views

regarding marriage without considering all influential factors throughout an individual’s

lifetime . Present research found no significant difference in attitudes towards marriage of

young adults whose parents were divorce or separated, they also had intentions to get married

someday. In contrast, the Social Learning theory explained that individuals learn by

observing, imitating and modelling behaviour within their social environment for example,

the family. Therefore, it can also be assumed that individuals observing parental divorce and

turmoil within the family, can impact negatively on their relationships and future marital

status.

However, although there have been many changes to the union of marriage and

certain views and attitudes towards it, marriage seems to still hold a substantial relevancy

within the 21st century and it has become clear that it still remains a goal of many young

adults within society today.

 41

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 45

Appendix

This study is concerned about undergraduate student’s attitudes towards marriage and their
intent to marry. Please answer each section as honestly as you can and please do not spend
too long thinking about each question as there is no right or wrong answers.
The information that you provide will remain anonymous and confidential, you are not
required to write your name anywhere on this survey. I would like to thank you in advance
for your time and co-operation.

If you require any further information regarding this research, please do not hesitate to
contact me at the email address below.

Name: Orla Goslin

Email: [email protected]
 46

Please complete the following demographic information:

What is your gender: Male 
Female 

What is your age? ______

What is your highest education level?

Primary 
Secondary 
Third level 
Postgraduate 

Are your parents:

Married 
Separated 
Divorced 
Never Married 

When would you like to get married?

1-2 years 
3-4 years 
5-6 years 
7-9 years 

10+years 

Never 
 47

Instructions: Please read the following statements and indicate how much you agree with
them by circling the appropriate number to the right of the statement as follows:
1 = Strongly Agree
2 = Agree
3=Neither agree or disagree
5= Strongly Disagree
1) I intend to get married someday…………………………………………… 1 2 3 4 5
2) I want to marry.……………………………………………………………. 1 2 3 4 5
3) I do not hope to marry………………………………………………………1 2 3 4 5
4) Marriage is beneficial……………………….………………………………1 2 3 4 5
5) A major advantage of marriage is that it gives financial security…………..1 2 3 4 5
6) I am fearful of marriage……………………………………………………..1 2 3 4 5
7) People should not marry…………………………………………………….1 2 3 4 5
8) I have doubts about marriage……………………………………………….1 2 3 4 5
9) It is better to have a bad marriage than no marriage at all………………….1 2 3 4 5
10) Marriage is a “good idea”…………………………………………………..1 2 3 4 5
11) There are more advantages to being single than to being married………...1 2 3 4 5
12) I do have fears of marriage………………………………………………....1 2 3 4 5
13) Married people are happier than people in other types of relationships……1 2 3 4 5
14) Marriage makes people happy……………………………………………..1 2 3 4 5
15) It is much better for a couple to get married than to just live together……..1 2 3 4 5
16) Most marriages are unhappy situations……………………………………..1 2 3 4 5
17) The main purpose of marriage is to have children……………………….....1 2 3 4 5
18) It is better for children if their parents are married…………………………1 2 3 4 5
19) Adult children of divorce are less likely to get married…………………….1 2 3 4 5
20) Marriage is important……………………………………………………….1 2 3 4 5
21) Marriage makes people happy………………………………………………1 2 3 4 5
 48

Instructions: Please read the following statements and indicate how much you agree with
them by circling the appropriate number to the right of the statement as follows:
1 = Strongly Agree
2 = Agree
3=Neither agree or disagree
4= Disagree
5= Strongly Disagree

1) Having a sense of personal fulfilment is important for a good marriage…..1 2 3 4 5

2) Romance is important for a successful marriage…………………………...1 2 3 4 5

3) Staying faithful to one another is valuable for a good marriage……………1 2 3 4 5

4) Trust is important for a successful marriage………………………………..1 2 3 4 5

5) Sexual intimacy is valuable for a successful marriage……………………...1 2 3 4 5

6) Commitment is valuable for a successful marriage…………………………1 2 3 4 5

7) Financial stability is valuable for a good marriage………………………....1 2 3 4 5

8) Having a sense of personal fulfilment is important for a healthy marriage...1 2 3 4 5

9) Romance is valuable for a healthy marriage………………………………..1 2 3 4 5

10) Shared values between partners are valuable for a good marriage…………1 2 3 4 5

11) Communication is important for a good marriage………………………….1 2 3 4 5

12) Sexual intimacy is not valuable for a successful marriage………………….1 2 3 4 5

13) Financial stability is not valuable for a successful marriage………………..1 2 3 4 5

14) Emotional support is important for a healthy marriage……………………..1 2 3 4 5

15) Romance is not valuable for a good marriage………………………………1 2 3 4 5

16) Having a sense of personal fulfilment is valuable for a successful marriage.1 2 3 4 5

17) Commitment is not valuable for a healthy marriage………………………..1 2 3 4 5

 49

18) Communication is valuable for a successful marriage……………………...1 2 3 4 5

If you are concerned with or affected by any of the content of this survey please do not
hesitate to contact the following organisations:

Accord
- Harcourt Street (01) 4780866
- Dun Laoghaire (01) 2801682
- Blanchardstown (01) 8201044
- Swords (01) 8404550
Or visit: www.accord.ie

Relationships Ireland 1890 380 380 (Lo- Call)

Family Therapy Association of Ireland (FTAI) (01) 2722105

I would like to thank you again for taking part in this study and would like to remind you that
all information given here is confidential and is anonymous. If you would like to know more
about this study, please contact me at the email printed at the front of this booklet.

Orla Goslin.