Which of the following best describes the relationship between religious affiliation and risk of divorce?

• A. Religious affiliation is associated with an increased risk of divorce.
• B. Religious affiliation has no effect on divorce risk.
• C. Religious affiliation is associated with a decreased risk of divorce.
• D. Religious affiliation is the sole determinant of divorce.

Answer: (C)

Religious affiliation often relates to marriage stability: being connected to a religious group tends to be linked with a lower likelihood of divorce. This comes from several factors that can support lasting marriages. Religious communities provide social support and networks, promote norms of commitment and family stability, and encourage couples to work through problems rather than end the relationship. Shared beliefs and values (religious homogamy) can also reduce conflicts that arise from differing expectations, and regular religious participation can reflect higher levels of commitment.

At the same time, this is an association, not a guarantee—numerous other factors (education, socioeconomic status, personal history, cultural context) influence divorce, and not all religious groups have the same patterns. It’s not accurate to say religion is the sole determinant, or that it always lowers risk for every individual.

So the best choice is that religious affiliation is associated with a decreased risk of divorce.