A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

In 2019, what proportion of couples in the UK were married or in a civil partnership?

1. 1/2

2. 2/3

3. 3/4

4. 5/6

The correct answer is: 2/3

In 2019, approximately two-thirds of couples in the UK were either married or in a civil partnership. This figure reflects the enduring significance of marriage and civil partnerships as social institutions in British society. As cultural norms and legal frameworks have evolved, marriage has remained a primary relationship form for many individuals, despite an increasing number of cohabiting couples. The statistic indicates that while alternative arrangements, such as cohabitation without formal commitment, have grown in popularity, a strong majority still choose the traditional route of marriage or civil partnership. This trend underscores the continued relevance of these legal unions in societal expectations and personal life choices, highlighting their importance in understanding family structures within sociological studies.