Exploring the Divorce Rate Among LDS/Mormon Couples: Insights and Solutions

The LDS or Mormon community has often been perceived as having a relatively low divorce rate compared to other religious or non-religious groups. This perception is often influenced by the strong emphasis on family and marriage within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, hereafter LDS). However, the divorce rate among LDS/Mormon couples is a topic of considerable interest and debate, with varying rates reported from different sources.

Understanding the Divorce Rates

According to various sources, the divorce rate among couples within the Church can vary significantly based on the type of marriage and the level of commitment to the LDS teachings. For instance, the divorce rate for those who marry in the temple and commit to an eternal marriage is reported to be as low as 7%. This figure is notably lower than the national average for divorce rates in the United States, which typically hovers around 40% for heterosexual marriages.

However, for those who marry outside the temple or do not fully adhere to LDS practices, the divorce rate increases. Among members who marry other Latter-day Saints but outside the temple, the divorce rate is reportedly around 25%, while for those who marry outside the faith, it is approximately 40%. These statistics highlight the influence of both religious commitment and temple marriage on the likelihood of divorce.

Factors Contributing to Lower Divorce Rates

The lower divorce rates among LDS couples can be attributed to several factors:

Strong Community Support: The LDS community provides a robust support system through bishoprics, quorums, and other church organizations. This support can strengthen marriages and provide a framework for dealing with marital challenges. Religious Values: The emphasis on family, commitment, and love within the LDS community can create a shared understanding and commitment to the marriage, making it more resilient to external pressures. Excommunication Threat: The threat of excommunication for divorce, while often seen as a deterrent, can also create a strong sense of commitment and responsibility within the relationship. Frequent Church Attendance: Members who attend church regularly and live devotional lives are more likely to maintain their marriage successfully, as they can draw upon religious teachings and community support.

Self-Help and Recovery Resources

While the support from the LDS community is crucial, some couples might find that additional resources are necessary to navigate marital challenges. One such resource is a guide designed to help couples save their marriages. This guide, which has helped over 6000 couples, offers actionable steps to address marital issues and prevent divorces.

According to the guide, many couples have recognized warning signs of marital distress and have taken corrective measures. By following the guide, one can identify and address specific issues within the marriage, leading to improved marital satisfaction. For example, one user experienced significant improvements in their marriage after following the guide's recommendations, stating that their marriage was on the path to become better than before.

Conclusion

The divorce rate among LDS/Mormon couples is a complex issue, influenced by various factors including religious commitment, temple marriage, and community support. While the divorce rate for those fully committed to LDS practices and temple marriage is significantly lower, the rate can increase for those who do not adhere as closely to religious teachings and rituals.

Regardless of marital success or struggle, the LDS community provides numerous resources and support systems to help couples navigate their journey together. However, additional self-help resources are available for those seeking to strengthen their relationships. With the right support and resources, many couples can work through challenges and build stronger, more resilient marriages.

For more information and resources, visit the Couples Guide to prevent divorces and save your marriage with practical steps and methods that have helped many others.