ABSTRACT
Dramatic social changes have taken place in the last 20 years, the impact of which has been both positive and negative. More women are working and earning income, and this has led to a new status as well as greater independence. Contraception and divorce also, in theory, suggest increased freedom in relationships. On the negative side, however, many people fear that these changes may result in the initial decision to marry not being taken as seriously as it used to be. Some even voice a concern about the survival of the institution of marriage and of family life itself.
