In 2021, 47.35 million men in the U.S. had never been married. This figure highlights a significant demographic trend in marital status (Duffin, 2022). The rising number of never-married individuals, including men, has become increasingly notable over recent decades.
Factors Contributing to Never-Married Status
Several factors may contribute to this phenomenon. While not explicitly discussed in the provided reference, common reasons found in related research include:
- Changing Social Norms: Marriage is no longer seen as a necessity for adulthood or social acceptance.
- Economic Factors: Financial stability can influence decisions about marriage.
- Personal Preferences: Some individuals simply prefer to remain single.
- Career Focus: Prioritizing career goals over settling down.
Increase in Never-Married Individuals
Data from the Institute for Family Studies indicates a notable increase in never-married individuals. Over the last two decades, the percentage of never-married individuals rose from 21% to 35%, marking a 14 percentage point increase (Wang, 2020). This trend suggests a continued shift in societal attitudes and priorities regarding marriage.
