With regard to changes in the age of first marriage in Japan, one of the most noticeable trends over the past few decades is the trend toward later marriage. In recent years, the age of first marriage for Japanese men has risen to around 30 and about 29 for women, and this trend is not temporary, but rather reflects changes in social background and values. This article will explore in detail the reality and background of this trend toward later marriage.
Changes in the Age of First Marriage
From the postwar period through Japan’s period of rapid economic growth, the average age of first marriage in Japan was relatively low, around 25-26 years for men and 23-24 years for women. Since the 1990s, however, the age of first marriage has gradually increased, and the pace has accelerated since the 2000s. Behind this increase are a complex combination of factors.
Major factors contributing to the increase in late marriages
1. Educational attainment has become more sophisticated
In modern Japan, the number of people pursuing higher education is increasing. In particular, the rate of women entering college has increased markedly, and this has often led to the timing of marriage being pushed back. The trend toward emphasizing learning and skill acquisition at educational institutions supports individual career development, but also encourages people to choose not to rush into marriage.
2. emphasis on financial stability
The emphasis on financial stability is another important factor in the trend toward later marriage. Currently in Japan, non-regular employment is on the rise and incomes of young people are often unstable. Under these circumstances, more and more people are postponing marriage until they secure a stable income. In addition, more preparation time is often needed to take into account the financial burdens associated with marriage, such as wedding and new housing costs.
3. changing social values
In the past, there was an age considered to be the “appropriate age” and marriages that fell within that framework were common. Today, however, there is a growing awareness that marriage itself is not essential. Especially in urban areas, values that emphasize individual freedom and independence are becoming more prevalent, and more and more people are choosing not to view marriage as part of their life stage. The forms of partnerships are also diversifying, and an increasing number of couples are choosing not to necessarily stick to legal marriage.
4. changes in the marriage activity market
While the spread of marriage agencies and matching applications has increased the number of opportunities to meet people, there is a tendency to choose one’s partner carefully when using these services. As a result, the process of marriage is becoming longer, which is considered to be one of the reasons for the trend toward late marriages.
Merits and Demerits of Late Marriage
Late marriage has both advantages and disadvantages. One advantage is that it allows people to marry after they have established their careers, thus increasing their sense of financial stability. It also has the advantage of making it easier to build a more mature relationship by choosing a partner after one has achieved personal growth.
On the other hand, one disadvantage is the issue of the optimal age for childbearing. Especially for women, the increased risks associated with older childbearing will require planned family formation. In addition, marrying at an older age may place a heavier burden on childcare and retirement.
Future Outlook
The trend toward later marriage is expected to continue. At the same time, as flexible values toward marriage and family are spreading, a society in which individuals can freely make their own choices must be realized. For example, the development of an environment that allows people to balance work and child rearing, and the recognition of diverse family forms, including those of LGBTQ+ people, are important issues.
Japanese society is moving away from the “standard family model” of the past to a more diversified value system. In this context, flexible systems and support measures that suit individual lifestyles are needed. For example, concrete efforts are required to improve childcare support and legalize same-sex marriage.
Conclusion
The increase in the age of first marriage, or late marriage, in Japan is a social phenomenon caused by changes in education, the economy, and values. This change is not necessarily a negative one, as it indicates a trend toward individuals pursuing a more personalized life. However, if appropriate support is provided to address the challenges associated with late marriages, a society will be built in which all people can realize their choices with peace of mind.