Catholic couples in their first 10 years of marriage are asked to contribute their valuable insights to a professional survey into the experience of early married life.
Funded by the Bishops Commission for Life, Family and Public Engagement, and managed by the Parish and Marriage Resource Centre, the research is being conducted by the Christian Research Association and is approved by the Christian Research Association Ethics Committee.
It is in response to concerns raised in Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation Amoris Laetitia that couples in the early years of marriage receive appropriate accompaniment.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the early years of marriage are considered high risk, with the median duration of marriage to separation in Australia at eight to nine years, and marriage to divorce at 12 to 13 years (ABS, 2024, Marriages and divorces Australia).
Despite being at the highest risk of marriage breakdown, this cohort is currently underserved.
The two-part survey is designed to be completed individually, not as a couple. Responses are also sought from couples who have separated or divorced.
The first part explores marriage experiences, while the second part explores beliefs, understanding and behaviours in more depth.
All answers are anonymous and confidential, and participants are asked to answer as honestly as possible.
The information gathered will form a solid evidence base for appropriate pastoral responses and the development of resources for this vital stage of married life.
The survey plus associated information can be accessed at https://thepmrc.org/survey
