Partnership dissolution in Austria during multiple crises, 2018-2023
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.20377/jfr-1347Keywords:
couple separation, Microcensus, Austria, COVID-19 pandemic, inflationAbstract
Objective: This study examines partnership dissolution in Austria from 2018 to 2023, covering the pandemic and a subsequent period of high inflation. It specifically investigates the role of socio-economic and family characteristics and hence contributes to the literature on how crisis periods interact with such characteristics.
Background: Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, divorce rates across European countries significantly declined and remained low through 2023. This sustained low level is notable, especially given the potential for a rebound in divorce rates due to postponed divorces.
Method: The analysis draws on 24 quarterly waves from the Austrian Microcensus, focusing on cohabiting and married couples aged 20 to 54 (n=31,239 couples). Households participated for five consecutive quarters. Changes in partnership status across waves are analysed using logistic regression models.
Results: The dissolution of partnerships declined during the pandemic (2020-21) and increased thereafter. The risk of separation decreased most significantly in two groups: couples without minor children in the household (compared to couples with minor children) and couples living in nonmarital cohabitation (compared to married couples). We interpret the less pronounced decline in dissolution risk among parents as an indication of higher strain, particularly due to work-family conflicts.
Conclusion: Austrian couples split less despite the increased strains many families experienced due to the multiple crises that occurred during this period. The economic barriers hindering partnership dissolution, – especially among couples in weaker socio-economic positions, may be considered a social problem.
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