This transformation shows that individuals will eventually divorce in life after marriage. In 1986, the average age of marriage was 25 years old, and the average age of marriage lasted nearly 13 years old. By 2020, the average age of marriage has increased to about 31, and the average duration of marriage has been extended to nearly 15 years.
Several factors, such as longer life span, financial independence, especially among women, and the stigma surrounding divorce contributes to this trend. Individuals have more years of reflection on their achievements, and if their current relationship no longer meets their needs, giving more people the choice to pursue new paths without worrying about social judgment.
Marnie Wraith’s eight-year experience with her partner made her feel a desire for personal growth and new experiences.
“I’m on the shore and I don’t feel like I’m growing up,” Worth shared. “There are still more meaningful connections and adventures in life at nearly 60 that I won’t get in my own situation.” But, just as every coin has two sides, this brings challenges such as financial impact, especially when it comes to assets built over decades, and individuals may face the prospect of supporting themselves with a single income. Emotional disorders, such as loneliness and the reorganization of social networks, are also common and may increase the overall situation and cause stress and anxiety. However, many find that the pursuit of personal happiness and satisfaction exceeds the difficulties.
As Wraith suggests, “Try to remove the warning tape and realize your dream. This is the age of life.”
