Why do people choose for or against marriage? What is important to parents before marriage? Why do parents marry – or not? What do people fear in the event of a separation or divorce? Have they protected themselves legally – and if so, how?
Pros and cons of marriage
All these questions are explored in the study "Family with or without a marriage certificate? What do (prospective) parents know about the legal consequences of marriage, divorce, or separation?", conducted by the SINUS Institute on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs. It provides insights into why people choose for or against marriage, how well-informed they are about the legal regulations governing their chosen family structure, and how they evaluate these regulations.
More information is requested
Why do people choose marriage or not? What are the long-term consequences of this decision – especially for parents? The study published by the SINUS Institute in December 2024 provides insights into these and other questions. The study shows that many couples decide on their family structure without a sound understanding of the legal and economic implications. At the same time, many would like more information on the subject.
A partnership-based division of responsibilities is crucial
"In cases of separation, divorce, or the death of a partner, the family structure can have a major impact, especially for mothers. Therefore, parents should address legal and financial issues surrounding partnership and marriage early on and discuss these topics openly with their partner," said Federal Minister for Family Affairs Lisa Paus.
The minister added: “A partnership-based division of paid and unpaid work is crucial to enabling women and men to participate equally in the labor market and to secure their own livelihood and retirement. While it's not always possible to protect oneself from a separation, one can protect oneself from its economic consequences.”
Promote a collaborative division of labor
Further findings of the study indicate that the majority of respondents desire a partnership-based distribution of care work and paid employment. The Federal Ministry for Family Affairs promotes this through parental leave benefits, the expansion of childcare facilities, and the legal entitlement to full-day childcare. Together with businesses and trade unions, the Ministry also advocates for family-friendly working conditions within the framework of the corporate program "Success Factor Family.".
The corporate network “Success Factor Family”
The "Success Factor Family" business network, with over 8,900 members nationwide, is the largest platform for employers committed to or interested in family-friendly HR policies. The network was founded in 2007 by the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs and the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce (DIHK). Membership is open to all companies and institutions that are committed to and wish to actively participate in family-friendly HR policies. Membership is free of charge.
Source: Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth, January 13, 2025