OPINION: Marriage And Children

America’s divorce rate has improved; that’s been a steady trend since 1979. But one reason why is not good news.

Because so many people don’t bother to get married, now four out of ten children (12 and under) have lived in a home with cohabiting parents rather than married parents. In fact, one-fifth of American children are born into such a home.

This involves more than a lifestyle choice, because the commitment level of marriage brings great advantages to children. Part of it is that cohabiting parents are almost twice as likely as married parents to split up.

And studies clearly show children with married parents have emotional, social, even academic advantages, are only a third as likely to be abused.

It remains as true as ever that it’s best for kids when their parents are married—and stay married.

From The Heritage Foundation, I’m Ernest Istook.

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