By Philip Dance
The divorce rate in America is high and experts estimate that 50 to 60 percent of these divorces could be avoided.
Students in the marriage, family and human development department are working closely with Dr. Brent Barlow, professor for the School of Family Life, to help couples facing marital challenges.
With the help of his students, Dr. Barlow produced the booklet 'Marriage Crossroads,' explaining the impact divorce has on the couple, children and others involved before a couple makes a life-altering decision.
'There are apparently a large number of married couples in the United States who approach the relationship crossroad having to decide whether to stay together or get divorced,' Barlow said.
At the present time approximately 40 to 50 percent of couples in first marriages arrive at this point and eventually choose the path of divorce, he said.
'''Marriage Crossroads'' provides couples with information and facts about divorce,' Barlow said.
The marriage, family and human development department is working hard to help provide couples with quality information about the results of divorce, he said.
Governor Mike Leavitt is also very supportive of students'' efforts, and is printing 10,000 copies of the booklet to disburse to couples, Barlow said.
Utah County is including the book in divorce packets given to all couples filing for divorce.
'Divorce has become the easy way out, many people feel that if they are no longer in love or not getting along divorce is the only solution,' said Rock Permann, 23, a senior from Rockland, Idaho, majoring in marriage, family and human development.
No one is perfect, and once couples stop caring about each other it becomes easy to focus on the other person''s faults, Permann said.
Marriage takes work, he said.
Students are hoping the booklet will help those considering divorce to reconsider.
'Research shows if couples who are applying for divorce will wait four to six months, 33 to 45 percent will reconcile their differences and refrain from divorce,' Barlow said.
The book addresses the importance of marriage and the impact divorce has on the couple and their children.
'It is obvious that a large number of children of divorced parents survive the experience and later become capable and stable adults,' said Diane Davidson, 20, a junior from Salt Lake City majoring in marriage, family and human development.
It is also becoming increasingly evident that many children of divorce are at risk for developing detrimental behaviors, personality disorders and disruptive behaviors, she said.
People are beginning to worry about the rate of divorce, especially among younger couples.
'It is becoming increasingly evident to those who study marriage trends in the United States that an estimated 50 to 60 percent of divorces could, and perhaps should, be avoided in the best interests of those involved,' Barlow said.
For information on how to find this booklet and get more information on marriage go to www.utahmarriage.org.