Editor’s NOTE: The following was written and published during the Christmas season of 2015 and therefore it begins with that reference, but think beyond this… and think of how all of this affects our children in the public school system. Things need to change. ~ Ed.
In addition to being viewed as a season of religious devotion, Christmas has also become a time of family traditions and togetherness.
But will those traditions and togetherness continue if the American family disappears?
According to a Pew Research Center report, there has been a 20 percentage point drop in two-parent families in the last 50 years:
“The share of children living in a two-parent household is at the lowest point in more than half a century: 69% are in this type of family arrangement today, compared with 73% in 2000 and 87% in 1960. And even children living with two parents are more likely to be experiencing a variety of family arrangements due to increases in divorce, remarriage and cohabitation. Today, fully 62% of children live with two married parents – an all-time low. Some 15% are living with parents in a remarriage and 7% are living with parents who are cohabiting. Conversely, the share of children living with one parent stands at 26%, up from 22% in 2000 and just 9% in 1960.”
That two-parent households are at an all-time low should give cause for concern, particularly since children growing up in divorced or cohabitating homes are more at risk for:
* Decreased Academic Performance
* Decreased Conflict Management
* Crime
* Out-of-Wedlock Births
* Drug and Alcohol Usage
* Suicide
Today we’re told that it doesn’t matter what type of lifestyle we choose as long as it makes us happy. As a result, many have chosen to abandon the idea of a lifelong committed marriage in which to raise children. But given the many documented problems which such a choice brings, can we honestly say that such a choice is wise, or even brings happiness? Should Americans once again embrace the value of the two-parent family?
Written by Annie Holmquist and published by Intellectual Takeout ~ December 21, 2015
~ The Author ~
Annie is Editor of Intellectual Takeout. In her role, she assists with website content production and social media messaging.
Annie received a B.A. in Biblical Studies from the University of Northwestern-St. Paul. She also brings 20+ years of experience as a music educator and a volunteer teacher – particularly with inner city children – to the table in her research and writing.
In her spare time Annie enjoys the outdoors, gardening, reading, and events with family and friends.