dw.com
Declining Marriages and Rising Singlehood in Germany"
By the end of 2023, 50% of German adults were married (35 million), a decrease of 10% from 1993; concurrently, single adults rose from 24% to 33% of the population, with first marriages occurring later in life (women 32.8, men 35.3 years old).
- What is the current state of marriage in Germany, and how does it compare to previous decades?
- In Germany, approximately half of adults (35 million) were married by the end of 2023, a 10 percentage point decrease from 30 years prior. This decrease correlates with a rise in the number of single adults, increasing from 15.8 million in 1993 to 22.6 million in 2023.",
- What are the main factors contributing to the decline in marriages and the rise in singlehood in Germany?
- The declining marriage rate in Germany reflects shifting societal values and increased financial independence. The average age at first marriage has risen significantly, indicating a greater emphasis on personal development and establishing stable relationships before marriage.",
- What are the long-term implications of these trends for German society, particularly concerning demographics and family structures?
- The trend of later marriages and increased cohabitation before marriage suggests a move towards more deliberate and stable unions. This is coupled with historically low divorce rates, indicating a potential shift in societal attitudes towards marriage.",
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article's framing is largely neutral, presenting statistical data on marriage and singleness in Germany. The headline (if there was one, which is not provided) might influence the framing, but the article itself uses a balanced tone in presenting both the decline in marriage and the rise in singles. The inclusion of a psychologist's perspective adds a degree of interpretation, but this is presented as an opinion rather than a definitive explanation.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses primarily on the declining marriage rate and rising number of singles in Germany, providing statistics and expert commentary. While it mentions low birth rates as a contributing factor, it omits discussion of other potential societal or economic influences on marriage trends, such as changing attitudes towards marriage, increased financial independence of women, or the impact of government policies. The lack of diverse perspectives beyond the quoted psychologist might limit the reader's understanding of the complexities involved.
Sustainable Development Goals
The increasing average age at first marriage suggests a shift towards more deliberate and potentially equitable partnerships, where individuals prioritize personal development and financial stability before committing to marriage. This can contribute to more stable and functional relationships, reducing the risk of early marriage and promoting gender equality in decision-making within partnerships.