In China, marital strife seems to be on the rise as the annual divorce rate has doubled from last decade to 3.8 million couples. According to researchers at Peking University, 20% of men and women are unfaithful in their marriages—a number that has elevated in the last 30 years. Some economists attribute the change to an increased willingness from wealthy businessmen to put their own desires above familial obligation, a value that has decreased in significance since improved living standards have given way to financial freedom.
It is not uncommon for rich Chinese husbands— some that hold positions as prestigious as government officials and ministers—to keep a “second wife,” or a mistress that is financially provided for by their lover. Some portions of apartment complexes are even discretely reserved for these mistresses, whom are often provided a living allowance in exchange for sex and companionship.
Migration and social media has also allowed increased opportunities for couples to meet members of the opposite sex after marriage. Some couples do not even live in the same household, making it easier to engage in affairs. Surveys indicate that infidelity is the number one cause of marriages ending, making it no surprise that divorce rates have rocketed.
At Law Office of Andrew A. Bestafka, Esq., our Monmouth County divorce attorneys are well-versed in navigating the complex landscape of divorce, adoption, child support, and other cases of family law. If you are in need of legal services pertaining to these matters, don’t hesitate to contact our offices at (732) 898-2378 for more information.