Marriage is a significant milestone in life, and while many couples enter into it with the best of intentions, divorce remains a reality for many. According to statistics, between 40 and 50 percent of first-time marriages end in divorce. But is there a way to minimize the risk of divorce and build a long and happy marriage?
LA-based psychotherapist Lori Gottlieb, author of the bestselling book Maybe You Should Talk to Someone, recently shared her insights on the ideal age for marriage. According to Gottlieb, the timing of marriage can significantly influence its success.
Gottlieb advises against marrying too young, citing a lack of maturity and life experience as potential pitfalls. On the other hand, she suggests that individuals who marry in their mid to late 20s are more likely to have a successful marriage. At this stage, individuals have had time to develop a clearer sense of self and their desires, making it easier for them to grow together as a couple.
A study by the Institute of Family Studies supports Gottlieb’s claim, revealing that individuals who marry at 25 are 50 percent less likely to divorce compared to those who wed at age 20. Gottlieb notes that this “golden window” for marriage, between the ages of 25 and 30, allows couples to build a strong foundation for their relationship.
However, Gottlieb also cautions that getting married after 32 can have negative consequences for the relationship. At this stage, individuals may have accumulated more negative experiences and emotional baggage, which can inform their behavior in their current relationship.
Ultimately, while there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of the ideal age for marriage, Gottlieb’s insights offer valuable food for thought. By considering the importance of maturity, life experience, and emotional readiness, couples can set themselves up for a strong and lasting marriage.
