The Truth About Divorce Rates in Arranged Marriages 'divorce rate arranged marriages'

When it comes to marriage, many people automatically assume that traditional courtship and romance are a given. However, there is another type of union gaining more attention: the arranged marriage.

Contrary to popular opinion, arranged marriages are not necessarily doomed to fail. In fact, statistics suggest otherwise – especially when compared to other forms of matrimony. According to Statistic Brain's 2012 study, only six percent of couples who entered into an arranged marriage ended up divorcing within their first few years together.

So what sets these unions apart from more traditional love matches? For one thing, the idea behind arranging a marriage is often centered around long-term compatibility rather than short-lived infatuation. Unlike forced marriages where both parties may not necessarily want to be wedded for reasons outside of their control (and are sometimes even at risk of being disowned if they refuse), arranged unions typically involve two people who have some level of mutual respect and understanding before saying 'I do.'

Of course, like any relationship – whether it's love-based or otherwise – there will always be challenges that arise along the way. However, when both partners approach their union with an open mind and a willingness to work through issues together (rather than simply giving up at first sign of trouble), even seemingly insurmountable obstacles can often be overcome.

As someone whose own parents have been happily married for many years thanks in large part to being introduced through arranged means, I can attest firsthand that these types not only CAN succeed – but frequently DO so. In fact, according to various studies and anecdotal evidence alike, the divorce rate among couples who opt for an arranged marriage is often significantly lower than its counterparts.

So what accounts for this disparity? While there may be many factors at play (from increased communication and commitment from both parties to simply being more intentional about finding someone with whom they share compatible values), one thing becomes clear: whether you're entering into a love-based union or an arranged marriage, success ultimately comes down to the individual couple themselves – not some preordained destiny decided upon by others.

In other words, while having your parents or close friends play matchmaker can certainly help things along (especially if they've got a keen eye for compatible personalities and interests), at the end of the day it's up to you and your partner to put in the hard work required to make any relationship – arranged or otherwise – truly last.

Divorce rate arranged marriages