Check It Out

The marriage-go-round : the state of marriage and the family in America today
By Andrew J. Cherlin
HQ 535 C416 2009

Andrew J. Cherlin is Professor of Sociology and Public Policy at Johns Hopkins University and in his new book he looks at the history of marriage in this country. Cherlin points out that Americans tend to both marry and divorce more than people in other countries, and that the United States is unique in the extent of governmental dedication to maintaining marriage.

This new title looks at recent developments regarding same-sex marriage, changes in family court decisions, and newer models of marriage and family life. The author also researches the tensions that arise as a result of Americans' high regard for marriage but also for self-expression and personal growth, which allows people to cast marriage aside easily. Cherlin calls his last chapter "Slow Down," counseling Americans to reflect more carefully on how to balance their sense of individuality with their expectations of the "fragile accomplishment" that is marriage.

Check out The marriage-go-round : the state of marriage and the family in America today by Andrew J Cherlin, available now in the library on the New Book Shelf HF5548.32 .M538 2009.