Chapter 7: Marriage Part I: Multiple Choice Questions Learning Objective 7.1: Is marriage found in every society? 1. The marriage between Roderick and Scherazade, as shown in the opening vignette, shows us that: A. marriage between a Muslim and a Christian has a unique set of challenges. B. a good marriage is the result of shared values, commitment, and communication. C. a devitalized marriage can still be happy. D. a peer marriage does not work. E. same-sex marriages are similar to heterosexual marriages. Answer: B Rationale: The opening vignette introduces us to Roderick and Scherazade, and the theme of their interview is that a good marriage is the result of shared values, commitment, and communication. 2. Married people in the United States: A. are almost twice as likely to report being “happy” as are unmarried adults. B. are less likely to report being “happy” as compared to unmarried adults. C. experience micro-level features of marriage, but do not experience macro-level features. D. are marrying at younger ages than they were a generation ago. E. are more likely to want children then they did a generation ago. Answer: A Rationale: A is true; all of the others are false. 3. Marriage is found in ______________ society/societies. A. developed B. every C. developing D. most E. in about half of Answer: B Rationale: Marriage is found in every society. 4. Which of the following is TRUE about marriage? A. About half of societies begin marriage with a publicly recorded ceremony, and the ceremony can be either festive or sombre. B. Love is the primary basis for marriage in virtually every country. C. In some countries it is acceptable, and even desirable, to marry your sibling. D. Islamic wedding receptions are strictly segregated by sex, with men and women celebrating in different rooms. E. Same-sex couples are allowed to legally wed in most states. Answer: D Rationale: Islamic wedding receptions are segregated by sex. Learning Objective 7.2: Is marriage a personal relationship or a social institution? 5. Which of the following examples reveals the macro-level nature of marriage? A. Kinh and Ngan-Lien have a peer marriage. B. Harry and Claudia have been married for 63 years. C. Elizabeth and Ethan cannot get married because she is only 15. D. Isabella and Leonid have a lot of conflict in their marriage. E. Vikas and Pratima have a devitalized marriage. Answer: C Rationale: Macro-level factors include cultural norms and laws surrounding marriage. 6. Anna and Erika live in New York, and the law there forbids them to marry. This represents an example of A. the macro-side of marriage. B. the marriage premium. C. a selection effect. D. covenant marriage. E. the marital decline perspective. Answer: A Rationale: Macro-level factors include cultural norms and laws surrounding marriage. 7. Cultures try to control the development of love by many different mechanisms. Which one is practiced in the United States? A. child marriage B. relative freedom C. kinship rules D. segregation E. The United States does not try to control the development of love. Answer: B Rationale: Even the United States tries to control the development of love, although compared to other countries we offer relative freedom. Learning Objective 7.3: How has marriage changed over time? 8. During colonial America, marriage A. was often polygamous. B. was allowed between two women, but never two men. C. among Native Americans was often based on polyandry. D. was usually arranged. E. had a different structure or set of norms between Whites and Native Americans. Answer: E Rationale: Some Native Americans practiced polygyny, and had matrilineal descent, and matrilocal residence. Attitudes toward sex, divorce, and remarriage also often differed. 9. Several social changes took place after the Industrial Revolution that shaped marriage. Which is NOT one of these? A. a sexual revolution B. moving from farms to large cities C. changing life course patterns D. the 13th Amendment was passed E. the changing experiences of youth Answer: D Rationale: The 13th Amendment was passed prior to the Industrial Revolution. 10. Which group today is most likely to believe that the main purpose of marriage is “to bear and raise children” instead of “for mutual benefit and fulfilment”? A. Blacks B. Hispanics C. persons age 30-49 D. all adults E. persons age 65 and older Answer: B Rationale: Thirty-eight percent of Hispanics believe that the main purpose of marriage is to bear and raise children. Learning Objective 7.4: How does the marital decline perspective compare with the marriage resilience perspective? 11. Sean believes that marriage is increasingly threatened by the hedonistic pursuit of personal happiness at the expense of long-term commitment. His views represent: A. the marital decline perspective. B. the peer marriage perspective. C. the marriage movement perspective. D. the vital marriage perspective. E. the marital resilience perspective. Answer: A Rationale: The marital decline perspective sees that marriage is increasingly threatened by the hedonistic pursuit of personal happiness at the expense of long-term commitment. 12. Leslie believes that marriages are not really weaker than they were in the past. She thinks that the real threats to marriage are social problems such as poverty, discrimination, poor schools, or the lack of social services that families need to remain strong and resilient. Her views represent: A. the marital decline perspective. B. the peer marriage perspective. C. the marriage movement perspective. D. the vital marriage perspective. E. the marital resilience perspective. Answer: E Rationale: The marital resilience perspective asserts that marriage is no weaker than in the past, but all families need structural help to thrive. Learning Objective 7.5: How do we explain the decline in marriage rates? 13. Which of the following is TRUE with respect to marriage rates? A. The number of people who remain unmarried throughout their lives has remained relatively the same throughout history. B. About three-quarters of Whites (age 15 and over) are married. C. Compared to Whites or Blacks, Hispanics have the lowest rates of marriage. D. Marriage rates for Whites and Blacks have increased between 1995 and 2009, but have declined for Hispanics. E. Women (age 15 and over) are more likely to be married than are men. Answer: A Rationale: About 4 percent of adults never marry, and this figure is stable. 14. About what percent of men and women (age 15 and over) are married? A. men 73%; women 78% B. men 82%; women 78% C. men 54%; women 51% D. men 68%; women 68% E. men 68%; women 65% Answer: C Rationale: Fifty-four percent of men and 51 percent of women are married. 15. Which is a macro-level explanation for the lower marriage rates among Blacks? A. Blacks are more likely to report that they haven’t met the right person. B. Blacks are more likely to report that they like being single. C. Blacks are more fearful that marriage won’t work out. D. Blacks face an imbalanced sex ratio of eligible partners. E. Blacks value marriage less than do other groups. Answer: D Rationale: The sex ratio is an example of a macro-level factor. 16. Rosa, a Mexican-American woman just married Garrett, a Caucasian man. She is bilingual (Spanish and English) and Garrett speaks only English. They worry that this might cause a bit of a problem when he meets her grandparents, who do not speak English well. This is an example of what type of marriage? A. peer marriage B. devitalized marriage C. heterogamous marriage D. legacy preference marriage E. vital marriage Answer: C Rationale: A heterogamous marriage means marriage between people with different social characteristics. 17. Laws forbidding interracial marriage, which continued to exist at the state level until 1967, are called: A. interracial laws. B. interethnic laws. C. homogamous laws. D. civil union laws. E. ant miscegenation laws. Answer: E Rationale: Ant miscegenation laws prohibited interracial marriage. 18. With respect to marriage: A. marrying someone of a different religious faith is less frowned upon in society than marrying across other groups because faith is generally not as visible as race, age, or social class. B. interracial marriages are more common than interethnic marriages. C. marrying someone outside of your social class is common. D. attitudes toward interracial and interethnic relationships have become more hostile in the last 30 or 40 years. E. couples who hold similar religious beliefs and participate jointly in religious practice have less happy and satisfying marriages than those who do not share religion. Answer: A Rationale: Intermarriage between religions is less frowned upon than other types of intermarriage. Learning Objective 7.6: How do Americans feel about same-sex marriage? 19. Which is true about same-sex marriage? A. Massachusetts was the first state to legalize same-sex marriage. B. About 15 percent of adults support legalizing same-sex marriage. C. Civil unions offer the same set of rights and privileges as does marriage. D. Women, Whites, and people age 30-49 are most likely to support same-sex marriage. E. Fewer people supported same-sex marriage in 2009 than they did in 2005. Answer: A Rationale: Massachusetts was the first state to legalize same-sex marriage in 2004. 20. Public support for same-sex civil unions has ______________ and support for same-sex marriage has ______________ over the past five years. A. increased; decreased B. decreased; decreased C. increased; increased D. remained the same; decreased E. increased; remained the same Answer: C Rationale: Public support for civil unions and same-sex marriage has increased. Learning Objective 7.7: In what ways are attitudes toward marriage changing? 21. Which of the following statements about the ways that marriage is changing is FALSE? A. Most people believe that nonmarital sex is not wrong. B. Many couples now prefer shared breadwinning. C. Most people do not think that a single woman having a child outside of marriage is a good thing for society. D. The division of household labor is now divided near equally. E. More women are working outside the home than ever before. Answer: D Rationale: Household labor is still done primarily by women. 22. Many changes have occurred to marriage in the past generation, including: A. fewer people support same-sex marriage, but more support civil unions. B. fewer people have nonmarital sex. C. large increases in the number of people who never marry. D. more couples want to share the breadwinning role. E. fewer dual-earner households. Answer: D Rationale: More couples want to share breadwinning. Learning Objective 7.8: What is the marriage premium? 23. Marriage seems to have many advantages. Which is NOT one of them? A. better psychological well-being B. less social capital C. better health D. economic advantages E. greater chance of happiness Answer: B Rationale: Marriage offers more social capital, not less. 24. The idea that married people enjoy better psychological well-being, health, and economic security is the premise of: A. the marriage premium. B. the social capital perspective. C. the vital marriage perspective. D. his and her marriage. E. the selection effect. Answer: A Rationale: This is the definition of the marriage premium. Learning Objective 7.9: What is a selection effect? 25. What has research found: does marriage cause happiness, or are happier people more likely to marry in the first place? A. Marriage causes happiness. B. Happier people are more likely to marry. C. Both—marriage causes happiness and happier people are likely to marry. D. Neither—marriage does not seem to cause happiness, and there is no evidence that happier people are likely to marry. Answer: C Rationale: Both contribute to the relationship between marriage and happiness. 26. Which is the best example of a selection effect? A. Heterogamous marriages are more likely to end in divorce than are homogamous marriages. B. The government establishes many rules and regulations surrounding marriage. C. Married people enjoy more economic security than unmarried people. D. Religious faith and practice are associated with higher marital happiness. E. Healthier people are more likely to marry than are unhealthy people. Answer: E Rationale: Only E represents a selection effect—that certain people select into marriage. Learning Objective 7.10: Does marriage benefit everyone equally? 27. The idea that men benefit from marriage to a greater degree than do women has been nicknamed by Jessie Bernard: A. passive-congenial marriage. B. his and her marriage. C. power and control marriage. D. feminine and masculine worldviews. E. gendered marriages. Answer: B Rationale: His and her marriages refer to the different benefits that husbands and wives accrue from marriage. 28. Does marriage benefit everyone equally? A. Yes, marriage offers equal benefits across sex, race, and social class. B. Marriage may benefit men and women equally, but it benefits Whites more than Blacks. C. Marriage may benefit women more than men, and Blacks and Hispanics more than Whites. D. Marriage may benefit women more than men, but equally across races and social classes. E. Marriage may benefit men more than women, and Whites more than Blacks. Answer: E Rationale: Many family scholars suggest that men and Whites reap the most benefits from marriage. Learning Objective 7.11: What factors are associated with marital satisfaction and success? 29. Randall and Kent, a same-sex couple who are legally married, also own a business together. They spend virtually all their time together, and have most of the same friends and interests in common. Which type of marriage do they have? A. total marriage B. vital marriage C. passive-congenial marriage D. his and her marriage E. peer marriage Answer: A Rationale: A total marriage is one in which the couple’s lives are highly intertwined. 30. If you were offering marriage advice to your cousin, and wanted to explain what may improve the likelihood of having a happy, satisfying, and successful marriage, which of these would you suggest? A. Marry someone whose parents divorced because they will try more diligently to make their own marriage work out. B. Marry someone who has a very different background than your own so that things will be more exciting. C. Find someone who had an anxious attachment with their parents because they will be more eager to make the relationship work. D. Have a lot of sex and have fun doing so! E. Be careful about getting too involved in religion because it increases negative interactions between spouses. Answer: D Rationale: Sexual satisfaction is linked to stronger relationship satisfaction. 31. Which of the following is TRUE regarding marital satisfaction and success? A. Conflict-habituated marriages are those that end in divorce. B. Researchers today define a marriage as “happy” as long as it doesn’t end in divorce. C. Most married men and women report that their marriages are “very happy.” D. A study of over 2,000 married adults asked them to evaluate the importance of several factors to marital success and shared tastes and interests were at the top of the list. E. A study of over 2,000 married adults showed that Blacks and Hispanics have very different opinions about what factors are important to marital success. Answer: C Rationale: Sixty-four percent of men and 60 percent of women report that their marriages are very happy. Learning Objective 7.12: What is the marriage movement? 32. Government officials, marriage and family therapists, and religious leaders have created a ______________ that aims to influence public policy to promote and strengthen traditional two-parent marriage. A. marriage initiative B. wedding support group C. selection effect initiative D. marriage movement E. social capital movement Answer: D Rationale: The marriage movement wants to influence public policy to promote and strengthen traditional marriage. 33. Cole and Johanna are deeply committed to their faith and strongly believe that traditional marriage is the cornerstone of society. They have decided to have a type of marriage that would require some marriage preparation and restrict their future access to divorce. This is called: A. marital resilience. B. a covenant marriage. C. a vital marriage. D. a total marriage. E. a peer marriage. Answer: B Rationale: A covenant marriage is available in only a few states, and has somewhat different requirements than traditional marriage. Learning Objective 7.13: What is a “peer” marriage? 34. A relationship in which spouses consider themselves to have equal status or standing in the relationship, sharing breadwinning, housework, and childrearing roles is called: A. marital resilience. B. a covenant marriage. C. a vital marriage. D. a total marriage. E. a peer marriage. Answer: E Rationale: Peer marriage is a marriage among equals in which roles are shared. 35. Roderick and Scherazade, in the opening vignette, have an example of a: A. covenant marriage. B. conflict-habituated marriage. C. peer marriage. D. same-sex marriage. E. total marriage. Answer: C Rationale: Roderick and Scherazade have a peer marriage—they are equals and share roles. Part II: True – False Questions 1. A legally and socially recognized relationship that includes sexual, economic, and social rights and responsibilities for partners is known as marriage. Answer: True 2. Marriage is universal—it is found in every society, and all societies begin marriage with some publicly recorded ceremony. Answer: True 3. The government is involved in marriage because it views marriage as a stabilizing force. Answer: True 4. “Marriage can be hard work.” That statement illustrates the macro side of marriage, Answer: False 5. The founders of the U.S. government established marriage as a free-choice, polygamous or monogamous union that emphasized equality among spouses. Answer: False 6. The first wave of the women’s movement began with women working for the emancipation of slaves, but some noticed that their equal rights had been passed over with the adoption of the 13th Amendment. Answer: True 7. Today, surveys show that the focus of marriage is on mutual happiness and fulfilment, rather than economic considerations or bearing and raising children, especially according to Blacks and Whites. Answer: True 8. The marital decline perspective is the view that overall, marriages are no weaker than in the past, but that all families need an increase in structural support to thrive. Answer: False 9. Angela claims that the institution of marriage is increasingly being threatened by hedonistic pursuits of personal happiness at the expense of long-term commitment. This is known as the marital resilience perspective. Answer: False 10. The marital resilience perspective is the view that overall, marriages are no weaker than in the past, but that all families need an increase in structural support to thrive. Answer: True 11. Compared to Blacks and Hispanics, Whites have the sharpest declines in marriage rates between 1995 and 2009. Answer: False 12. The reason that marriage rates have risen over the past decade is that the age at first marriage has been declining. Answer: False 13. Homogamous marriage is a type of marriage in which spouses do not share certain social characteristics such as race, ethnicity, religion, education, age, and social class. Answer: False 14. Ant miscegenation laws are laws forbidding interracial marriage, and which existed at the state level until 1967. Answer: True 15. Civil unions refers to a public policy designed to extend some benefits to partners who are not legally married, but that does not provide the same degree of protection as marriage. Answer: True 16. About 18 percent of Americans support same-sex marriage and 25 percent support civil unions. Answer: False 17. Those most supportive of same-sex marriage tend to be women, Hispanics, the young, those who are less religious, and college graduates. Answer: True 18. Over the last generation there has been a strong shift in thinking about cohabitation, a single mother having a child, and nonmarital sex, with most people agreeing that they are a good thing for society. Answer: False 19. Over the last generation men are more likely to want to share breadwinning, but they still do not share the division of household labor equally. Answer: True 20. The marriage premium is a type of marriage in which the lives of partners are intertwined, physical and emotional intimacy are important, and both work hard at communication and compromise so their relationship continues to be satisfying and enjoyable. Answer: False 21. The concept that married people are happier, healthier, and financially better off than those who are not married is known as the marriage premium. Answer: True 22. The hypothesis that people who marry may be different from those who do not marry (for example, they may be happier, healthier, and have more money) is known as the wage premium. Answer: False 23. According to sociologist Jesse Bernard, women tend to benefit more from marriage than do men. Answer: False 24. “Selection effect” is a term to describe the different ways wives and husbands experience marriage and its benefits. Answer: False 25. Kevin and Theresa may have been in love when they married, but today they are together out of obligation and have no real passion in their relationship. This is an example of a passive-congenial marriage. Answer: False 26. One study asked 2,000 adults to rate the importance of several factors to a “successful marriage.” Faithfulness was most likely to be rated as “very important for a successful marriage.” Answer: True 27. The activities of a group of religious leaders, marriage and family therapists, and government leaders who hope to influence public policy to promote and strengthen traditional marriage is known as the marriage movement. Answer: True 28. Covenant marriage is a type of marriage available in three states that restricts access to divorce, requires premarital counseling, and imposes other rules and regulations. Answer: True 29. Roderick, in the opening vignette, wants a peer marriage, but his wife does not. Answer: False 30. Peer marriage is a type of marriage in which couples consider themselves to have equal status or standing in the relationship. Answer: True Part III: Short Answer/Fill in the Blank Questions 1. What is the definition of “marriage”? Answer: A legally and socially recognized relationship that includes sexual, economic, and social rights and responsibilities for partners. 2. List the five ways that societies try to control the development of love and control who people marry. Answer: (1) child marriage; (2) kinship rules; (3) segregation; (4) close supervision; (5) relative freedom 3. What do most Americans see as the main purpose of marriage today, and how does this differ by age and race/ethnicity? Answer: Most Americans see the main purpose of marriage as mutual benefit and fulfilment, although Hispanics and those 65 and over place less emphasis on this than do Whites, Blacks, and younger persons. 4. The view that the institution of marriage is increasingly being threatened by hedonistic pursuits of personal happiness at the expense of long-term commitment is called: Answer: the marital decline perspective 5. What is the marital resilience perspective? Answer: The view that overall, marriages are no weaker than in the past, but that all families need an increase in structural supports to thrive. 6. Which sex and which race/ethnicity is LEAST likely to be married? Answer: women; Blacks 7. List three macro-level factors that might explain why marriage rates of Blacks are lower than those of other groups? Answer: (1) economic considerations such as low pay or unstable work; (2) racism; (3) imbalanced sex ratio; (4) levels of education 8. Laws forbidding interracial marriage, which existed at the state level until 1967, are called: Answer: ant miscegenation laws 9. What is a homogamous marriage? Give at least three examples. Answer: A type of marriage in which spouses share certain social characteristics such as race, ethnicity, religion, education, age, and social class. 10. Describe the trends in the attitudes toward same-sex marriage and civil unions. Provide specific data. Answer: Both trends are rising. In 2003, 45% of people supported civil unions; today it is 57%. In 2003, 30% of people supported same-sex marriage; today it is 39%. 11. Describe the attitudes people have about nonmarital childbearing. Answer: Overall, people do not think positively about single motherhood. Sixty- six percent reported that it was a “bad thing for society.” However, people are more accepting of unmarried couples having children: only 43 percent said it was “very important” that a couple be married. 12. What is the marriage premium? Answer: The concept that married people are happier, healthier, and financially better off than those who are not married. 13. The idea that people who marry may be different from those who do not marry, for example, they may be happier, healthier, and have more money is called a/an: Answer: selection effect 14. The term developed by Jessie Bernard to describe the different ways wives and husbands experience marriage and its benefits is called: Answer: “his” and “her” marriage 15. List the five types of enduring marriages, according to Cuber and Haroff: Answer: (1) conflict-habituated; (2) devitalized; (3) passive-congenial; (4) vital; (5) total 16. What is a passive-congenial marriage? Answer: An enduring marriage that includes little conflict but also little excitement. 17. List three personal traits that can improve your odds of a successful marriage. Answer: (1) secure attachment with parents; (2) high-quality and stable parents’ marriage; (3) shared values, goals, and characteristics; (4) religious faith and practice; (5) frequency and satisfaction with sexual relationship 18. The activities of a group of religious leaders, marriage and family therapists, and government leaders who hope to influence public policy to promote and strengthen traditional marriage are called ______________ . Answer: the marriage movement 19. What is a covenant marriage? Answer: A type of marriage available in three states that restricts access to divorce, requires premarital counseling, and imposes other rules and regulations. 20. Roderick and Scherazade, in the opening vignette, have a peer marriage. What does this mean? Answer: A type of marriage in which couples consider themselves to have equal status or standing in the relationship and share roles. Part IV: Essay Questions 1. Describe how marriage is a macro-level social institution as well as a personal private relationship. Answer: Marriage serves dual roles in society, functioning both as a macro-level social institution and as a personal private relationship. As a macro-level social institution, marriage is a foundational component of society's structure. It regulates sexual behavior, legitimizes childbirth, establishes family units, and contributes to social stability and order. Through legal, religious, and cultural norms, marriage influences economic responsibilities, inheritance rights, and social status. It also plays a critical role in socializing children, providing them with a stable environment and transmitting societal values across generations. The institution of marriage impacts broader societal patterns such as labor force participation, demographic trends, and public policy. On a personal level, marriage is a private relationship characterized by emotional intimacy, mutual support, and personal commitment between partners. It is a union where individuals find companionship, love, and personal fulfilment. This personal aspect of marriage is cantered on the unique bond between the spouses, encompassing shared experiences, values, and goals. It provides a sense of security, belonging, and identity, contributing significantly to individual well-being and happiness. 2. Compare and contrast the marital decline perspective with the marital resiliency perspective. Give examples of each. Answer: The marital decline perspective and the marital resiliency perspective offer contrasting views on the state and significance of marriage in contemporary society. The marital decline perspective posits that the institution of marriage is weakening, leading to negative social consequences. Proponents of this view argue that increasing divorce rates, rising cohabitation, and declining marriage rates indicate a devaluation of marriage. They believe that this decline undermines social stability, erodes traditional family structures, and has detrimental effects on children and society at large. For example, higher divorce rates are seen as contributing to economic hardship, emotional distress, and behavioral problems among children from broken homes. Advocates of this perspective often call for policies that promote traditional marriage and family values to counteract these trends. In contrast, the marital resiliency perspective suggests that while the institution of marriage is evolving, it remains strong and adaptive. This view argues that changes in marriage patterns reflect positive social progress, such as increased gender equality and greater individual freedom. According to this perspective, the rise in divorce rates and non-traditional family forms indicates that people are no longer trapped in unhappy or abusive marriages. Instead, individuals have the agency to seek fulfilling relationships and personal happiness. An example of this perspective is the increasing acceptance of same-sex marriage, which represents an expansion of the institution's inclusivity and resilience. Proponents believe that society is adapting to new realities and that marriage continues to thrive in diverse forms. 3. Describe, using data from your text, the change in marriage rates over recent decades. Be sure to include racial and ethnic differences. Answer: Over recent decades, marriage rates in the United States have experienced significant changes, with notable variations across racial and ethnic groups. Overall, marriage rates have declined. Data from the text indicate that in the mid-20th century, a higher percentage of adults were married compared to today. This decline is attributed to factors such as increased cohabitation, changing social norms, and greater acceptance of remaining single or delaying marriage. Racial and ethnic differences are pronounced in marriage trends. For instance, African American marriage rates have declined more sharply than those of other groups. In recent decades, a lower percentage of African American adults are married compared to their White, Hispanic, and Asian counterparts. Contributing factors include economic disparities, higher incarceration rates among African American men, and changing cultural attitudes towards marriage within the community. Hispanic marriage rates have also seen a decline, but they remain relatively higher than those of African Americans. Economic challenges and shifting cultural practices influence these trends. Asian Americans tend to have higher marriage rates compared to other racial and ethnic groups. This can be attributed to cultural norms that place a strong emphasis on marriage and family cohesion. White Americans' marriage rates have declined but not as sharply as those of African Americans. Economic stability and social norms among White populations have contributed to maintaining relatively higher marriage rates. In summary, while marriage rates have generally decreased across all groups, significant racial and ethnic differences highlight the complex interplay of economic, cultural, and social factors influencing these trends. 4. Choose two of the following and write an essay about them: (1) marriage across social class lines; (2) interfaith marriages; and (3) interracial and interethnic marriages. Answer: Marriage, as a social institution, reflects the complexities and diversities of human relationships. Across the globe, people enter into unions that transcend traditional boundaries of social class, faith, race, and ethnicity. Such marriages, which bridge these divides, offer unique insights into the dynamics of love, culture, and society. Marriage across social class lines challenges entrenched notions of hierarchy and privilege. Historically, class divisions have often dictated social interactions and marriage patterns. However, as societies evolve, individuals are increasingly finding partners from different class backgrounds. These unions can lead to a blending of lifestyles, values, and perspectives, enriching the social fabric. Moreover, they can challenge stereotypes and contribute to greater social cohesion by fostering understanding and empathy across class divides. Interfaith marriages are another form of union that transcends conventional boundaries. In a world marked by religious diversity, these marriages highlight the complexities of religious identity and practice. Couples from different religious backgrounds must navigate issues such as ceremony, worship, and the upbringing of children. While these unions can be enriching, they also present challenges, as individuals reconcile their faith with that of their partner. However, they can also promote interfaith dialogue and understanding, fostering tolerance and respect for religious diversity. Interracial and interethnic marriages are perhaps the most visible form of cross-cultural union. These marriages challenge notions of racial and ethnic purity, highlighting the fluidity and complexity of identity. They also confront historical legacies of racism and discrimination, as couples navigate societal attitudes and perceptions. Despite these challenges, interracial and interethnic marriages can promote cultural exchange and understanding, enriching families and communities with diverse perspectives and traditions. In conclusion, marriages that cross social class, faith, race, and ethnicity offer profound insights into the complexities of human relationships and the diversity of human society. These unions challenge stereotypes, promote understanding, and enrich our collective experience. As societies continue to evolve, it is essential to embrace and celebrate the diversity of love and partnership, recognizing that true unity lies in embracing our differences. 5. Define and give the background of “civil unions.” Compare and contrast the benefits of marriage versus civil unions. Answer: Civil Unions: Definition and Background: Civil unions are legally recognized arrangements similar to marriage, established to provide legal protections and benefits to couples who are not married. They were first introduced as a way to grant same-sex couples some, but not all, of the rights and responsibilities afforded to married heterosexual couples. The concept of civil unions emerged in response to growing demands for legal recognition of same-sex partnerships, particularly as public opinion shifted towards greater acceptance of LGBTQ+ rights. The first country to legalize civil unions was Denmark in 1989, and several other countries followed suit in the 1990s and 2000s, including Norway, Sweden, and France. In the United States, the state of Vermont was the first to establish civil unions in 2000, providing same-sex couples with legal recognition and a range of benefits akin to those of marriage. However, the landscape changed significantly following the Supreme Court’s ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges (2015), which legalized same-sex marriage across the United States, thereby diminishing the necessity of civil unions in many places. Comparing and Contrasting the Benefits of Marriage versus Civil Unions: Legal Recognition: •Marriage: Universally recognized across different states and countries, providing consistent legal status. •Civil Unions: Recognition varies widely by jurisdiction. Civil unions may not be recognized outside the state or country where they were performed, limiting their portability. Legal Benefits: •Marriage: Offers a comprehensive set of legal benefits and obligations, including tax benefits, inheritance rights, spousal privilege in legal settings, and eligibility for spousal benefits in social security and insurance. •Civil Unions: Provide some, but not all, of the legal benefits of marriage. For instance, federal benefits tied to marriage, like those from the IRS or Social Security Administration, may not be available to partners in a civil union. Social and Cultural Recognition: •Marriage: Viewed as a traditional and widely accepted institution, often carrying significant social, cultural, and religious weight. •Civil Unions: Generally seen as a legal contract without the same social or cultural recognition, often perceived as a compromise or secondary to marriage. Emotional and Psychological Impact: •Marriage: The term "marriage" carries a societal validation and emotional significance that many individuals and couples find meaningful. •Civil Unions: While providing legal recognition, civil unions may lack the symbolic and emotional resonance associated with marriage. Access to Divorce Proceedings: •Marriage: Couples have access to established divorce proceedings that provide structured processes for asset division, child custody, and spousal support. •Civil Unions: Some jurisdictions may lack clear procedures for dissolving civil unions, leading to potential legal complications. In summary, while civil unions were a step towards equality, offering many legal protections, marriage remains the more comprehensive and universally recognized institution, providing a fuller range of benefits and social acceptance. 6. Discuss the marriage premium. Is it due to a selection effect? Answer: Marriage Premium: Definition and Analysis The "marriage premium" refers to the observed phenomenon where married individuals, particularly men, tend to earn higher wages and enjoy better economic outcomes compared to their unmarried counterparts. This wage premium can be ascribed to various factors including increased stability, shared resources, and enhanced support systems that often accompany marriage. Possible Explanations for the Marriage Premium: Human Capital Accumulation: Marriage can lead to increased investment in education and skills due to the support of a spouse. This mutual support system can enhance career development and productivity, leading to higher wages. Specialization: In many marriages, couples specialize in certain roles, such as one partner focusing more on career while the other may take on more household responsibilities. This specialization can increase overall household efficiency and enable one partner to advance further in their career. Employer Perceptions: Employers might perceive married individuals as more stable and responsible, potentially leading to better job opportunities and higher wages. Selection Effect: The selection effect posits that the marriage premium may not solely be a result of marriage itself but rather the characteristics of individuals who are more likely to get married. People who marry might already possess traits that lead to higher earnings, such as greater ambition, higher levels of education, or better social skills. Evidence for and against the Selection Effect: 1. Support for Selection Effect: Studies show that individuals who are more likely to get married often have higher incomes even before marriage. This suggests that the personal attributes contributing to higher earnings might also increase the likelihood of marriage. Longitudinal research indicates that the wage premium for married men often predates marriage, further supporting the selection hypothesis. 2. Evidence Against Sole Selection Effect: Other studies highlight changes in earnings trajectories post-marriage, indicating that marriage itself has an effect on earnings. For instance, married individuals may work harder or more efficiently after marriage due to increased responsibilities or the motivation to support a family. Experimental studies have shown that individuals experience wage growth after marriage compared to similar individuals who remain single, suggesting a causal relationship. Conclusion: The marriage premium appears to be influenced by both the selection effect and the intrinsic benefits of marriage. While individuals who marry may inherently possess characteristics conducive to higher earnings, marriage also contributes to increased productivity and economic benefits. Therefore, the marriage premium is likely a combination of pre-existing attributes of married individuals and the positive effects that marriage has on economic behavior and opportunities. 7. Does marriage benefit everyone equally? Answer: Marriage does not benefit everyone equally. The advantages and disadvantages of marriage can vary significantly based on factors such as gender, socioeconomic status, race, and individual circumstances. Here are some key points to consider: Gender Differences: • Men: Research generally shows that men tend to experience more pronounced economic benefits from marriage. Married men often enjoy higher wages and greater job stability compared to their unmarried counterparts. They also tend to benefit from improved health and longer life expectancy. • Women: While married women can also experience economic and health benefits, these advantages are often less pronounced than those for men. Women may face career interruptions due to childbearing and childrearing responsibilities, which can impact their long-term earning potential and career progression. Socioeconomic Status: • Higher Socioeconomic Status: Individuals from higher socioeconomic backgrounds are more likely to benefit from marriage, as they have more resources to invest in their relationships and can afford better healthcare, education, and living conditions. • Lower Socioeconomic Status: Those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may not experience the same level of benefits. Economic stress and lack of resources can strain marriages, potentially leading to higher rates of marital dissatisfaction and divorce. Race and Ethnicity: • The benefits of marriage can also vary by race and ethnicity. For example, studies have shown that marriage tends to confer greater economic and health benefits to white individuals compared to black and Hispanic individuals. This disparity is often linked to broader systemic issues such as racial discrimination, economic inequality, and differences in access to resources. Individual Circumstances: • Health and Well-being: The impact of marriage on health and well-being is not uniform. While many people experience improved mental and physical health through marriage, others may find that marital stress and conflict exacerbate existing health problems. • Relationship Quality: The quality of the marital relationship is a crucial determinant of the benefits one might experience. High-quality, supportive marriages can lead to significant emotional and psychological benefits, while low-quality, conflict-ridden marriages can have detrimental effects on health and well-being. In conclusion, while marriage can provide numerous benefits, these benefits are not distributed equally across different groups. Gender, socioeconomic status, race, and individual circumstances all play a significant role in determining the extent to which an individual might benefit from marriage. 8. Describe Cuber and Haroff’s typology of five different enduring marriage types. Answer: Cuber and Haroff, two sociologists, developed a typology of enduring marriages based on their study of long-term married couples. Their typology identifies five distinct types of enduring marriages, each characterized by different patterns of interaction, satisfaction, and stability. These types are: 1. Conflict-Habituated Marriages: • Characteristics: In conflict-habituated marriages, couples frequently engage in verbal arguments and conflicts. Despite the constant bickering and disputes, these couples remain together and do not view their conflicts as a threat to the stability of their marriage. • Interaction: The partners may have a high level of interaction, but much of it is negative. They have learned to live with and even expect conflict as a normal part of their relationship. • Satisfaction: Satisfaction in these marriages may be derived from the stability and predictability of the relationship, rather than from emotional closeness or harmony. 2. Devitalized Marriages: • Characteristics: Devitalized marriages are characterized by a significant decline in emotional intensity and passion over time. The initial spark and excitement of the relationship have faded, and the couple remains together more out of habit or duty than romantic love. • Interaction: Interaction tends to be routine and often revolves around practical matters rather than emotional or intimate exchanges. • Satisfaction: Satisfaction in devitalized marriages may come from a sense of commitment and shared history, even though the emotional connection has weakened. 3. Passive-Congenial Marriages: • Characteristics: In passive-congenial marriages, the partners have low levels of emotional investment and have often entered the marriage with pragmatic expectations. The relationship is based on convenience, companionship, and shared interests rather than intense emotional or romantic involvement. • Interaction: Interaction is generally calm and pleasant, but not deeply intimate. The partners may lead relatively independent lives. • Satisfaction: Satisfaction comes from the stability, predictability, and low-conflict nature of the relationship. 4. Vital Marriages: • Characteristics: Vital marriages are characterized by a high level of emotional intensity and mutual satisfaction. The partners are deeply involved in each other’s lives and derive great joy and fulfilment from their relationship. • Interaction: Interaction is frequent, affectionate, and intimate. The couple enjoys spending time together and shares a strong emotional bond. • Satisfaction: Satisfaction is high, as the partners feel connected, supported, and appreciated. 5. Total Marriages: • Characteristics: Total marriages are similar to vital marriages but with an even deeper level of involvement and interdependence. The partners share all aspects of their lives, including work, hobbies, and social activities. • Interaction: Interaction is constant and all-encompassing. The couple is highly interdependent and often views themselves as a single unit rather than two separate individuals. • Satisfaction: Satisfaction is derived from the profound sense of unity and shared purpose. These marriages are characterized by extreme closeness and mutual support. Cuber and Haroff’s typology provides a framework for understanding the diverse ways in which marriages can endure over time. Each type highlights different sources of stability and satisfaction, demonstrating that there is no single formula for a successful long-term marriage. 9. What factors may contribute to a successful marriage? Answer: Several factors contribute to a successful marriage, ensuring both partners experience satisfaction, stability, and a sense of fulfilment. These factors include: 1. Communication: • Open, honest, and respectful communication is crucial for resolving conflicts, understanding each other's needs, and building a strong emotional connection. 2. Trust: • Trust forms the foundation of a healthy marriage. It involves being reliable, keeping promises, and demonstrating faithfulness and integrity. 3. Commitment: • A strong commitment to the relationship helps couples navigate challenges and remain dedicated to each other through difficult times. 4. Mutual Respect: • Respecting each other’s individuality, opinions, and boundaries fosters a supportive and harmonious relationship. 5. Shared Values and Goals: • Having common values, beliefs, and long-term goals provides a sense of direction and purpose in the marriage. 6. Emotional Support: • Providing emotional support during times of stress and celebrating each other’s successes strengthens the marital bond. 7. Conflict Resolution Skills: • Effective conflict resolution skills, such as compromise, negotiation, and empathy, help couples manage disagreements constructively. 8. Quality Time Together: • Spending quality time together and engaging in shared activities helps maintain intimacy and connection. 9. Flexibility and Adaptability: • Being flexible and willing to adapt to changes and challenges in life ensures that the relationship can grow and evolve over time. 10. Physical Intimacy: • Maintaining a healthy physical relationship contributes to emotional closeness and overall marital satisfaction. 11. Financial Stability: • Financial stability and agreement on financial matters reduce stress and provide a sense of security in the marriage. 12. Positive Attitude: • A positive attitude and a sense of humour help couples enjoy their time together and navigate the ups and downs of life. In summary, successful marriages are built on a foundation of effective communication, mutual respect, trust, and shared values. By nurturing these aspects, couples can create a strong, enduring partnership. 10. Describe the marriage movement and covenant marriage. Would you want a covenant marriage? Why or why not? Answer: The Marriage Movement: The marriage movement is a social and political initiative that emerged in the late 20th century, advocating for the strengthening and promotion of traditional marriage. Its proponents believe that marriage is a foundational institution for society, essential for the well-being of individuals, families, and communities. The movement focuses on: • Encouraging marriage as a positive choice for couples. • Reducing the rates of divorce and cohabitation outside of marriage. • Promoting policies that support married couples, such as tax benefits and family-friendly workplace practices. • Emphasizing the importance of marriage for the healthy development of children. The marriage movement encompasses a range of organizations, scholars, and activists who work to promote these goals through research, public policy, and community initiatives. Covenant Marriage: Covenant marriage is a type of marriage contract introduced in the United States in the late 1990s as part of the marriage movement. It is designed to make marriage more resilient by requiring couples to commit to a higher level of commitment and to undergo premarital counseling. Covenant marriages are currently available in a few states, including Louisiana, Arkansas, and Arizona. Key features include: • Premarital Counseling: Couples must undergo counseling before getting married to ensure they understand the seriousness and responsibilities of marriage. • Limited Grounds for Divorce: Covenant marriages have stricter divorce requirements, allowing divorce only under specific circumstances such as adultery, abuse, abandonment, or after a lengthy separation. • Commitment to Counseling: Couples agree to seek marital counseling if they encounter difficulties, before resorting to divorce. Would I Want a Covenant Marriage? Why or Why Not? Deciding whether to enter a covenant marriage depends on personal beliefs and values about marriage and commitment. Here are some considerations: Reasons For a Covenant Marriage: 1. Commitment: If you believe in the importance of a lifelong commitment and want to emphasize the seriousness of marriage, a covenant marriage might align with your values. 2. Stability: The stricter requirements for divorce could provide a sense of security and stability, knowing that both partners are committed to working through challenges. 3. Counseling: The emphasis on premarital and marital counseling can help couples build a strong foundation and develop skills to navigate conflicts. Reasons Against a Covenant Marriage: 1. Flexibility: If you value the flexibility to leave a marriage that is unhealthy or unfulfilling, the stricter divorce requirements of a covenant marriage might be a deterrent. 2. Autonomy: Some individuals may prefer to maintain personal autonomy and not be bound by additional legal constraints. 3. Beliefs about Marriage: If you believe that the standard marriage contract already adequately reflects your commitment, you may not see the need for the additional requirements of a covenant marriage. In conclusion, whether or not to choose a covenant marriage is a deeply personal decision that depends on one’s values, beliefs, and attitudes toward marriage and commitment. Some may appreciate the added emphasis on commitment and counseling, while others may prefer the flexibility of a standard marriage contract. Test Bank for Exploring Marriages and Families Karen T. Seccombe 9780205915194, 9780134708201, 9780133807776
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