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“Poll Probes American Views on Love and Relationships”

Jan 22nd, 2008 • Posted in: Research Report

“Survey reveals generational differences in views on marriage and commitment”

From AOL Personals and Zogby International:

“More than 4 in 10 Americans (44%), including 50% in their 20s don’t believe that they need to be married to validate the commitment of a long-term relationship, according to a survey from AOL Personals … and Zogby. This is just one of the many findings from a new interactive survey of Americans age 20 to 69 that tackles how different generations view a wide range of relationship issues — from love to soul mates, money and trust….

“Issues related to trust in relationships vary significantly among different generations. Younger respondents are more likely to want the truth from their partner, even if it hurts — more than 85% of respondents in their 20s said they always want the truth, compared to 79% of those in their 50s and 60s….

“Money is an important issue in any relationship, but different generations have varying views on managing money matters. Those in their 20s are less likely to be concerned with differences in income, with 88% saying they would date someone who makes significantly less money. Older respondents are less inclined to combine incomes in a romantic relationship, with 38% of respondents 40 and older likely to do so, compared with 50% of respondents in their 20s and 30s.

“When it comes to dating, most Americans are able to overlook flaws in potential partners — such as prospects with small bank accounts, job loss, or physical disabilities. Adults in their 20s are less likely to be concerned about differences between themselves and their partners, with respondents in the age group more likely than others to date someone who comes from a different racial or religious background. In addition, while more than half of respondents (51%) would date someone with opposing political beliefs, those in their 20s (60%) are most likely to leave politics at home while out on a date….”

For more information, see: Full press release from Zogby, Jan. 2 — Reuters, Jan. 3.

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