The Changing Perspectives on Marriage: Love or Practicality?

Introduction

In recent years, societal views on marriage have significantly transformed due to diverse values and lifestyle changes. While some individuals are opting for later marriages or choosing to remain single, many still yearn for the bond of marriage. A survey conducted by For-it Inc., the company behind the affiliate platform "afb" (https://www.afi-b.com), reveals key insights into the reasons people wish to marry across various age groups.

Survey Background

The survey targeted individuals aged 20 to 69 who expressed a desire to marry or were already married, totaling 1,263 respondents nationwide. It aimed to uncover the primary motivations behind their marriage aspirations, focusing on the question: "What is your main reason for wanting to marry?"

Survey Overview

- Participants: 1,263 men and women aged 20-69 who wish to marry or are already married.
- Methodology: Online research.
- Survey Date: November 18, 2025.

Key Question and Results

The respondents were given the following options:
1. To be with the person I love.
2. For economic stability.
3. To have children and a family.
4. For social status and societal respect.
5. To meet parents' and others' expectations.
6. For security in old age.
7. Because it feels like a natural progression.
8. Other.

Findings

The most popular choice, with 33.3%, was the desire to be with a loved one, indicating that emotional fulfillment remains a crucial driver across all age groups. Notably, approximately 23.2% associated marriage with a sense of it being a natural progression, underlining a mindset where the act of marrying is seen less as a deliberate goal and more as a logical continuation of a partnership.

Age Variations in Marital Views

When examining attitudes toward marriage across different generations, a consistent trend emerges: the importance of love is prioritized in all age groups. Especially prominent among those in their 30s, this group tends to value romantic feelings in their marriage decisions. In contrast, respondents aged 50 and above were more likely to view marriage as a natural life milestone, reflecting trends from earlier societal norms. Additionally, the desire for children peaked among respondents in their 60s, which might point to a generational experience with child-rearing that shapes their values.

Gender Perspectives on Marriage Motivation

Analyzing the results by gender reveals distinct patterns. Men were more inclined to prioritize family-building, while women underscored economic stability as a leading factor. However, across both genders, the top motivation remained the desire to be with a loved one, highlighting the emotional core of marriage.

Economic Influences on Marriage Decisions

Further analysis categorized respondents by household income. Among those with an annual income of 5 million yen or less, the emphasis on love was notably strong. In higher income brackets, particularly those earning between 5-10 million yen, the motive shifted towards achieving economic security. For individuals earning over 10 million yen, motivations tied to social respect and fulfilling societal expectations were more prominent, indicating that higher income influences how marriage is perceived—balancing personal happiness with external societal responsibilities.

Conclusion

As societal norms evolve, the definition of marriage continues to expand. While emotional attachment remains a vital aspect of marriage, practical considerations like financial stability and societal perspectives play increasing roles, especially among different income levels. As individuals navigate their unique paths to marriage, the factors that contribute to this union will only grow more varied. Consequently, initiatives by government and corporations to support marriage in the face of economic concerns will be crucial moving forward. What remains clear is that the notion of marriage is no longer a one-size-fits-all situation; it reflects personal choices and societal transformations. Afb actively supports various modes of finding love through diverse promotional efforts tailored to the changing landscape of modern relationships.

For new affiliate partners interested in leveraging this evolving dialogue about marriage, consider exploring opportunities at afb. More information can be found at: afb.