Union Disruption in West Germany

Abstract:

Is marriage a port in the stonn or is there a decrease in the “traditionality” of partnerships? The traditional marriage has two functions: production and the upbringing of children, on the one hand, and mutual support, on the other, with a male breadwinner and female housekeeper.

The modern trend is toward greater acceptance of fulfilling the traditional functions of marriage through other arrangements. Contributing factors are: the reduced economic need of marriage among women because of their stronger economic position and an enhanced welfare state, and less fulfillment of the traditional functions of marriage. Independently of the fonnal status, the character of the arrangements tends to fulfill traditional functions. This especially seems to be the case for marriages because they were formed and later separated against the background of the traditional functions ofbrining up children and mutual support in principle with a male breadwinner.