The family structure of the United States has drastically evolved into something else. More and more millennials are starting their own families. This constitutes to the changes in the household culture. Some of the traditions remain the same, while some may have changed their perception on how they bring forth in leading their families. As of 2016, millennials are classified as the largest living generation with a population of 79.8 million. This may be an important factor to look into since households spendings dictate a huge part of the economic growth of the country. More so, this gives a gist as to how generations have changed when it comes to their preferences.
One of the most noticeable changes in the millennial household is the rising rate of unmarried mothers. From 5 percent in the year 1960, the rate rose up to 41% of births in 2011. A lot of the births came from the following races respectively – black women, Hispanic women, and white women. 8.6 million unmarried female household heads the family in the United States with a child of fewer than 18 years old. In a survey, 57% of millennial mothers rated themselves as good parents. This is relatively high compared to 48% of Gen X mothers and 41% of Boomer mothers. Millennial dads, on the other hand, didn’t rate themselves highly as only 39% answered yes. An interesting fact about millennial is that they feel good about their parenting phase and they are having fun with it. They find it rewarding and enjoyable. Based on Pew Research, Americans from the age group 18-29 years old considered being a good parent matters more than a successful marriage.
Unmarried mothers nowadays believe in the concept of cohabitation. They don’t want to tie the knot if they weren’t ready for that type of commitment yet. Living in a healthy and happy household was one of their top priorities. And most of them don’t want to risk getting married and having their marriages destroyed leaving more devastation to their children. Just this 2017, the rate of millennials, both married and in a relationship, have ended their relationships because of unresolved differences. According to Wakefield Research, 22 percent of which argue about political differences specifically about President Trump’s reign. This Trump news certainly isn’t a positive one to hear as more and more couples fight as they passionately share their opposing point of views to one another, which then leads to divorce. More than the possible unresolved differences that occur and continue to occur in marriages, there is another reason that hinders them from choosing the married life. In a recent survey, millennial mothers don’t feel pressured in following the earlier traditions of their parents and grandparents. The perception of the concept of marriage has entirely shifted. Their generation and the resources around them has become a huge factor in shaping their thoughts. Since millennials grew up in a world where almost everything can be known with the touch of the fingertips, this further harnessed the drive of being independent individuals. Thus, they would focus more on investing in themselves and parenthood first before marriage.
While the rate more unmarried mothers continue to rise, this doesn’t mean that everyone is for single parenthood. Some would still go for the vocation of a married life. In fact, in 2016, millennials became the largest multiracial generation. According to Pew Research, “Around 630,000 multiracial Millennials headed a household in 2016, compared with about 540,000 multiracial Gen Xers and a similar number of multiracial Boomers.” This marks a profound shift as to how Americans now view cultures and races of all kinds. Some may argue that keeping their race’s line is still the tradition and priority. However, some may have a different perception and see this as a way of embracing difference and working on it as one.
These facts about the millennial American family may spark as a refresher for many. And even for some, this may be a break from everything that’s happening in the country. That’s why this topic about millennials bring forth a new perspective for individuals to see this matter in a different light which may eventually improve family approach practices in the years to come.
Originally posted on October 17, 2017 @ 4:04 am
