Online dating and divorce rates

Many California residents face the prospect of divorce every year. Online dating has made it easier than ever before for single individuals to meet new partners. It would seem likely that this trend could lead to an increase in divorce rates, but a study conducted by professors at the University of Essex and the University of Vienna indicates otherwise.

Online dating has become very popular among both same-sex and heterosexual couples. The study suggests that online dating may lead to happier couples, as it indicates that relationships last longer when couples meet online compared to more traditional ways. According to another study published in 2013 in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 5.6 percent of couples who met online broke up compared to 7.6 percent of those who met in other ways.

Online dating websites such as Match.com and OkCupid.com offer matchmaking services that may lead to greater compatibility among couples who meet online. Another factor that may make couples who meet online enjoy more successful and long-lasting relationships is that individuals who sign up for dating websites may be more ready for marriage than couples who are not involved in online dating.

Couples who are facing the end of a marriage may also be facing important legal issues such as child custody decisions, alimony and property division. In many cases, divorcing couples may come to an agreement about some of the issues such as how they will share parenting time. They might want to have the help of their respective family law attorneys when they are attempting to negotiate a comprehensive settlement agreement.