What societal change has been linked to the rise in divorce rates?

The rise in divorce rates can be closely linked to changes in divorce laws. Over the past few decades, many societies have undergone significant legal transformations that have made it easier for individuals to obtain a divorce. Notably, the introduction of no-fault divorce laws removed the requirement for couples to prove wrongdoing by one party, simplifying the process and making it more accessible. This legal shift lowered barriers to ending marriages, leading to an increase in divorce rates as individuals felt empowered to leave unsatisfactory or incompatible relationships without the fear of blame or lengthy legal battles.

In contrast, societal factors like stigma surrounding divorce have generally decreased, as acceptance of divorce has grown over time. Support for dual-income households may have increased, allowing partners to sustain themselves independently, but this does not inherently lead to higher divorce rates. Lastly, while the length of marriages can be a factor in relationship dynamics, the specific linkage of changed divorce laws directly explains the phenomenon of rising divorce rates more effectively.