The Next Generation: Changing Attitudes Toward Divorce

Created: 22 September 2025

Divorce, once steeped in stigma and shame, is now viewed through a far more progressive lens by the next generation. Millennials and Gen Z are reshaping how society sees relationships, breakups, and personal growth, challenging outdated ideals and redefining what it means to end a marriage. In previous generations, divorce was often considered a personal failure, something to be avoided at all costs. Many couples choose to stay in a relationship for the children or for other personal reasons, even if it is at the expense of their mental health and happiness. Today, younger adults are prioritising emotional well-being, authenticity, and mutual respect. For them, divorce is not necessarily a disaster, but a valid and sometimes empowering life decision.

One of the most noticeable shifts is the recognition that divorce can be a positive turning point. Rather than being framed as a collapse, it's increasingly seen as a conscious, self-aware decision to end a relationship that has ceased to work. It’s a mindset that emphasises personal growth, respectful co-parenting, and moving forward rather than staying stuck in resentment. Millennials and Gen Z are also approaching marriage more cautiously. Many delay tying the knot until they feel emotionally and financially secure, often placing value on personal development, therapy, and open communication; foundations that influence how both marriages and divorces are navigated.

Social media and the digital age have played a role in normalising divorce, too. Stories of amicable separations, blended families, and second chances are widely shared online, stripping away much of the old stigma. The narrative has shifted: there is life after divorce, sometimes one filled with new career highs, fresh romance, or simply a stronger sense of self.

Statistics reflect this changing reality. In the UK, approximately 40% of marriages are expected to end in divorce. Meanwhile, millennials are marrying less frequently than previous generations. A separate U.S. study discovered that only 46% of millennials aged 25 to 37 were married, compared to 57% of Gen X and 67% of baby boomers at the same age. This doesn’t signal the end of marriage, but does highlight a change in how and why people enter into it.

In fact, marriage is still celebrated by younger generations, just in a more mindful, personalised way. The rise of wedding culture on social platforms like TikTok (where #marriage boasts over 70 billion views) and Instagram shows that Gen Z and millennials still value love and commitment. But they're also realistic. They understand that not all marriages last, and this seems to be generally accepted. This combination of realism and optimism defines their approach. Divorce is no longer something to be whispered about; it’s acknowledged as part of life. When someone in their community goes through a divorce, millennials tend to respond not with pity but with empathy and encouragement. There's a common belief that leaving a toxic or unfulfilling relationship is not just acceptable, but commendable.

To some, being divorced can deliver a sense of liberation, helping individuals to recognise that they control their happiness and future. Separation is not merely considered as the end, but as a new part in their onward journey.

One of the most common reasons for divorce among younger couples is simply growing apart. The 20s and early 30s are periods of intense self-discovery, and it’s not unusual for couples to evolve in different directions. When paths diverge, ending the relationship isn’t always seen as failure; it’s often viewed as necessary for growth.

The next generation isn’t taking divorce lightly, but they’re also not afraid of it. They are choosing happiness over obligation, emotional health over societal approval. In doing so, they are redefining divorce as a powerful step toward a better, more authentic life.

The Next Generation: Changing Attitudes Toward Divorce

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