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'According to the Annual Report of the Registrar General for 2014, some 22,033 marriages were recorded for the year, a 6.6% increase over the figure in 2013.' (Irish Independent, July 2015) (a) Discuss why marriage is a popular option for couples in Ireland today - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 5 - 2016
Question 5
'According to the Annual Report of the Registrar General for 2014, some 22,033 marriages were recorded for the year, a 6.6% increase over the figure in 2013.' (Iri... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:'According to the Annual Report of the Registrar General for 2014, some 22,033 marriages were recorded for the year, a 6.6% increase over the figure in 2013.' (Irish Independent, July 2015) (a) Discuss why marriage is a popular option for couples in Ireland today - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 5 - 2016
Step 1
Discuss why marriage is a popular option for couples in Ireland today.
Answer
Marriage is popular in Ireland today for several reasons. Firstly, the traditional view of marriage has evolved; couples now have more options, such as civil marriages and same-sex marriages. This shift reflects greater societal acceptance and offers various pathways to commitment.
Secondly, marriage provides couples with a sense of security. The legal framework associated with marriage offers protections and rights that can enhance stability in a relationship. For instance, married couples can make critical decisions about each other's health care, share financial responsibilities, and inherit from each other automatically.
Additionally, many couples see marriage as a foundation for family life. The desire to have children often drives couples to marry, as marriage is traditionally viewed as a stable environment for raising children.
Finally, cultural and religious traditions continue to play a significant role; for many, marriage is profoundly connected to cultural identity and religious beliefs, reinforcing its popularity.
Step 2
Discuss (i) the rights
Answer
The rights of a couple within the marriage relationship include:
- Right to each other’s company: Married partners are entitled to one another's companionship and emotional support.
- Living together as partners: Couples have the right to share a home and build a life together.
- Monogamous relationship: Both partners are expected to remain faithful to one another.
- Consummation of the marriage: Sexual intimacy is generally expected in a marriage.
- Legal protections: Legal frameworks allow non-consummated marriages to be annulled, providing an avenue for couples facing issues.
- Inheritance rights: Under laws such as the Succession Act 1965, partners have rights to inherit from each other in the event of death.
Step 3
Discuss (ii) the responsibilities
Answer
The responsibilities of a couple within the marriage relationship encompass:
- Financial support: Couples are expected to provide for each other and for any children that may arise from the union.
- Guardianship of children: Responsibilities include legal obligations to care for and support children, ensuring their well-being.
- Educational needs: Couples must ensure children receive adequate education and support for their growth.
- Emotional support: Partners should work to maintain emotional health by communicating openly and addressing each other’s needs.
- Commitment to the relationship: Both partners must demonstrate a commitment to a functioning marriage, including resolving conflicts and reinforcing the bond of partnership.
Step 4
Name and give an account of one option available to couples who are experiencing difficulties in their marriage.
Answer
One option available to couples experiencing difficulties is Marriage Counselling. This involves professional guidance to help couples navigate issues before they escalate into separation or divorce. Counselors work with couples to address problems, improve communication, and develop coping strategies for conflicts.
Additionally, resources such as ACCORD and other family support services are available, providing couples with the opportunity to explore underlying issues in a confidential and supportive environment. This form of counseling aims to restore or enhance the relationship by fostering understanding and reconciliation.