Covenant marriage: A new alternative for traditional families

The phrase "alternative family forms" evokes images of family organization that deviate from the so-called "traditional" model of nuclear structure with husband/breadwinner, wife/homemaker. This paper, however, examines a new, alternative form of marriage contract that is highly compatible with that traditional model: "Covenant Marriage", which is currently available in just two of the fifty U.S. states. We begin by describing features of the covenant marriage alternative in Louisiana, and its supporters early, enthusiastic expectations. We then discuss its very limited adoption, but its much greater appeal to couples with traditional gender role attitudes. We conclude by considering the apparent value of the covenant marriage contract for those couples who wish to practice and promote gendered family roles and responsibilities.