Relationships, Marriage, & Family Life in Norway
Relationships and marriage in Norway are fairly relaxed compared to most countries in this world. Like many of its neighbors, Norway is a very liberal country that views relationships and marriage quite differently than they did a century ago. Today marriage is not viewed as a necessity and a couple living together or having children prior to marriage is not seen as a negative by most of society.
This attitude towards marriage begins with relationships in Norway. Many young people want to establish themselves as individuals prior to marrying, which means dating is generally drawn out over time as individuals place education, careers, exploration, and owning a home as higher priorities than marriage. Most Norwegians date much as they do in other European and North American countries, but rarely does a relationship become serious until the couple is in their mid-20s if not older.
Despite the delay in marriage, many Norwegians find themselves in committed relationships through the dating process, which often leads to living together and even having children (most first born children in Norway are born out of wed-lock). These things, much like gaining an education and starting a career, are often viewed as more important than marriage itself. A part of this is because many people view marriage as simply a legal standing, plus few people put great weight in religious reasons that encourage marriage. Despite the delay, and at times lack of belief in marriage, people in Norway still marry in significant numbers. Both heterosexual marriages and same-sex marriages are legal in Norway and many people do marry, although that might not occur until a couple is in their 30s or even later.