The number of people remaining unmarried has increased dramatically over previous
generations, mainly as a result of changing social conditions and attitudes.
Even though most people still marry, more than one in five adults do not, with
the highest percentage of the unmarried being African Americans. Being single
can be voluntary or involuntary--and temporary or stable. The great majority
of singles are only temporarily unmarried, delaying marriage because of social,
economic, and personal reasons. There are both advantages and disadvantages
to remaining single. In general, differences exist between singles and marrieds
in health and well-being, with some gender differences. Singles have greater
opportunities for self-development, personal growth and fulfillment, and career
development, and a variety of life-styles and living arrangements. An increasing
number return home to live with their parents. Overall, they have a great need
to develop social support to help avoid loneliness and experience companionship.
Although singles generally have active sexual lives, most are not sexually promiscuous.
However, births to unmarried women have become more common. Singles usually
are not as well off financially as are marrieds. Although many older singles
are well-adjusted to their situation, others are not completely happy if they
feel isolated from other groups. Overall, adequate financial resources and an
acceptable level of social activity are important to satisfaction of singles
with their lives. |
2002 McGraw-Hill Higher Education