Which factor contributes to higher divorce rates today?

• A. Increased stigma around divorce.
• B. Higher marriage pressure to stay together.
• C. Economic instability forcing divorce.
• D. Reduced pressure to marry young and less stigma around divorce.

Answer: (D)

Shifts in how society views marriage and divorce shape whether people stay together or part ways. When there’s less pressure to marry young, people wait until they feel ready for a long‑term commitment. When divorce is viewed as an acceptable option rather than a social failure, ending an unhappy marriage becomes more feasible. Together, these changes make it easier for couples to dissolve marriages that aren’t working, which tends to increase divorce rates today. In contrast, greater stigma around divorce or stronger pressure to stay together would push people to endure unsatisfying marriages. Economic instability can add stress, but it isn’t the driving norm behind rising divorce rates as effectively as the shift toward accepting divorce and delaying marriage.