Factors related to fear of marriage.

The present paper identified elements which seem to influence fear of marriage or certain avoidant patterns associated with marital commitment. Because census bureau data suggest that increasing numbers of individuals have either delayed marital commitment or avoided it entirely, further research has become necessary to ascertain possible influences. Although the literature suggests men have traditionally had more problems making marital commitments, more women are also avoiding marriage. Some related factors were fears about loss of identity, control, or finances and about accepting adult responsibility. Careful attention to such fears might help clinicians focus more consistently on previously unlabeled impediments to marital commitment.