"The marital horizon functions as a behavioral organizer. It shapes what young men pay attention to, how they invest their time and energy, and how they weigh short-term pleasures against long-term flourishing."
The Institute for Family Studies published an article by Wheatley Institute Family Director Jason Carroll about the myriad of benefits that preparation for marriage brings to young men—and how these benefits only come if marriage is a clear and proximate goal.
As the median age of American marriage hits historic highs, research shows that young men are shifting their focus away from being "marriage-ready." This is linked to prioritization of short-term pleasures over long term gains, such as a decreases in hours worked and increases in likelihood of binge drinking or casual sex.
Although 7 in 10 young adults still desire to marry, many are drifting away from the path of preparation and direction which leads to success in marriage.