Exploring the Impact of Religiosity and Socioeconomic Factors on Perceived Ideal Timing of Marriage in Young Adults

Abstract

In light of rising averages in the age of first marriage for men and women, as well as changes in attitudes regarding marriage and family life in young adults, the study of marital timing has received increased attention in recent years. Marital timing has been known to be associated with various aspects of marital satisfaction and stability, yet most research has focused on limited variables to assess perceptions of the ideal timing of marriage. This study explored the association of demographic, current and background socioeconomic (SES) factors, and religiosity with various measures of perceived ideal marital timing in a sample of 385 unmarried young adults. Overall, results indicate that religiosity and ethnicity have an impact on perceived ideal age and timing of marriage. Also, less pronounced associations were found between SES factors and perceived marital timing. Implications and future directions for family practitioners and researchers are discussed.