Compare And Contrast Institutional Model Of Marriage

An institutional approach to marriage provides more security

“‘Til death do us part,” a vow couples often make as they begin their lifelong journey, is telling of the predicted longevity of their commitment. However, many do not approach marriage with a mindset that will increase their odd of marital success. Some approach marriage looking for a soulmate, while others approach marriage looking for a partner that will support as well as a person to be with for the rest of their lives. Although the two can overlap sometimes, one yields better results than the other.

Fostering a successful marriage requires limiting the risk factors of divorce when choosing a spouse. For example, Couples who have had multiple partners are more likely to get divorced, therefore those who have cohabitated or been married multiple times have a higher chance of divorce. Another factor that predicts divorce likelihood is the type of family the spouse grew up in. If he or she grew up in non intact households then the spouse is more likely to divorce as well: “If your parents were divorced, you’re at least 40 percent more likely to get divorced than if they weren’t. If your parents married others after divorcing, you’re 91 percent more likely

The institutional model values the functions and structure of the marriage over the actual marriage. Institutional models seek to combine the institution of marriage with “sex, parenthood, economic cooperation, and emotional intimacy in a permanent union” (Douthat, 2013). Essentially, a marriage is seen as a way to unite many aspects of life rather than simply happiness. Therefore, couples do their best to avoid divorce. Couples who follow the institutional model are more likely to value the foundation of marriage and find support in the functions of marriage in order to preserve the