Uses of marriage and divorce statistics

Despite their demographic, economic and social implications, nuptiality and divorce statistics have received relatively little attention compared to those of natality and mortality. Trends and differentials in marriage and divorce rates are discussed widely, but few statements have their basis in statistical fact. This is due in part to the fact that until recent years, very little was done by governments to compile relevant statistics, possibly because their relationship to current problems was obscure. Some of this neglect might also be attributed to the fact that in some countries where health authorities are responsible for vital statistics, there tends to be a lack of appreciation for those not obviously concerned with health matters.

Related Subject(s): Population and Demography