Don't misunderstand me. I love the traditional role of marriage. I am happily married to a wonderful man who treats me like a princess. I have had to dump many preconceived notions along the way in order to keep marital bliss. Perhaps because everyone these days goes into marriage with the idea that it is all joy, all unconditional love and romance, they are shocked into disbelief when they find it actually requires hard work.
That stupid 'ideal' along with generations raised without a clue as to hard work and commitment (honor and civility) have resulted in a complete break down of a very worthwhile institution.
Sadly, it does not exist within just one sex. Everything is so disposable these days. Children, husbands, wives, life in general. Those of us who believe in actually honoring your vows and doing what you say you will, are in a very small minority. It seems that honor and constancy are no longer valuable commodities. How heartbreaking.
They still are it's just that now the market for these commodities is much, much smaller.
Due in large part to the reasons you stated.. People with an unrealistic view of what marriage is and why it's important. They think everyone lives allie McBeal and has a new mercedes for every day of the week.
And if you don't? Well, then you are obviously sleeping with the wrong person..