Changing Family Patterns

Many people within the realm of politics and economics refer to this generation of young adults and youth as "Millennials." The patterns that concern marriage and family for us Millennials have changed drastically since the time of the Baby Boomers. The following list displays the areas that have changed within the last 60 years. 

Patterns that are Increasing:

• Premarital sex
• Births to unmarried women
• People living alone
• Cohabitation
• Delayed marriage
• Employed mothers of young children
• Divorce rates

Patterns that are Decreasing:

• Birth rates 
• Household size

This week in my Family Relations class, we talked about these patterns of marriage and family in society as it pertains to families in the world today. It was troubling to see these patterns occurring in the general public sphere and it was especially troubling to know that they are projected to continue in the direction they are headed now. My main concern about these patterns is the effect that they will have on the upcoming generations. Outside of a religious foundation, it will be very hard for the future children to discern what is best for them because these patterns of cohabitation, premarital sex, divorce, and working mothers are now the norm. The idea of what a family and marriage are is now becoming relative to whatever someone feels suits them best. I know that this is contrary to what the Lord had intended for His children. He laid out the pattern of marriage and family since before the world was formed. His plan will lead to happiness, yet the world is quickly abandoning His way.

Despite the family and marriage turmoil that exists in the world today, I feel confident in having a successful marriage and raising a successful family. The Lord has provided us with the scriptures, the doctrine on the family, programs for the family, and counsel from His servants to help us come off conqueror in the last days. These troubling patterns are not new to this generation of Millennials, and I still grew up in a great home with noble parents who taught me the Gospel. It’s my personal belief that they were successful in raising us. I feel like this righteous generation is proof that you can live in the world but not of the world. I can only imagine how strong my children will be because they have to be. Living the Gospel of Jesus Christ gives me hope for a strong future marriage and family. 

Lauer, R.H. & J.C., (2012) Marriage & Family: The Quest for Intimacy, Eighth Edition. New York, NY: McGraw Hill.