问答题 The horse and carriage is a thing of the past, but love and marriage are still with us and still closely interrelated. Most American marriages, particularly first marriages involving young couples, are the result of mutual attraction and affection other than practical considerations.
In the United States, parents do not arrange marriages for their children. Teenagers begin dating in high school and usually find mates through their own academic and social contacts Though young people feel free to choose their friends from diverse groups, most choose a mate of similar background.
This is due in part to parental guidance. Parents cannot select spouses for their children, but they can usually influence choices by voicing disapproval of someone they consider unsuitable. However, marriages between members of different groups (interclass, interfaith, and interracial marriages) are increasing, probably because of the greater mobility of today"s youth and the fact that they are restricted by fewer prejudices than their parents. Many young people leave their home towns to attend college, serve in the armed forces, or pursue a career in a bigger city.
Once away from home and family, they are more likely to date and marry outside their own social group.
In mobile American society, interclass marriages are neither rare nor shocking. Interfaith marriages are on the rise particularly between Protestants and Catholics. On the other hand, interracial marriage is still very uncommon. It can be difficult for interracial couples to find a place to live, maintain friendships, and raise a family. Marriages between people of different national origin (but the same race and religion) have been commonplace here since colonial times.