What was a significant factor in the increased divorce rates in the 1960s and 1970s?

A significant factor in the increased divorce rates during the 1960s and 1970s was the changes in laws making divorce easier. During this period, many jurisdictions reformed their divorce laws, introducing no-fault divorce, which allowed couples to dissolve their marriage without needing to prove wrongdoing by either partner. This legal shift made it less cumbersome for individuals who were unhappy in their marriages to seek separation, thus contributing to a rise in divorce rates.

The ease of obtaining a divorce reflected broader social changes and attitudes toward marriage and family structures. As society progressed, the stigma associated with divorce began to diminish, and the perception of marriage shifted from being seen as a lifelong commitment to a partnership that should bring personal happiness and fulfillment. This change in perspective, combined with easier legal processes, resulted in more couples feeling empowered to leave unsatisfactory relationships.

While factors like the economic independence of women and growing acceptance of single-parent families also played roles in the evolving family structure during this time, the immediate impact of more accessible divorce laws stands out as a significant catalyst for the rise in divorce rates.