Divorce trends among individuals born between the mid-1960s and the early 1980s, sometimes called the “latchkey generation,” reveal distinct patterns compared to previous and subsequent cohorts. This specific demographic experienced a period of significant societal change impacting marital stability. Factors influencing marital outcomes within this group include evolving gender roles, increased female participation in the workforce, and shifting attitudes toward marriage itself.
Understanding the prevalence and potential causes of marital dissolution within this generation provides valuable insights for social scientists, policymakers, and relationship counselors. Examining the data allows for a clearer understanding of the long-term consequences of these trends on families and society. The historical context of this generation’s formative years, characterized by economic shifts and increasing divorce rates among their parents, contributes to a more nuanced interpretation of their own marital experiences.