Late modernity introduces many changes that are also shown in plurality of lifestyles – new forms of partnerships and parenthood – with rapid increase in number of single people. In accordance with individualisation processes each individual is responsible for their own biography, hence the responsibility for being single is transferred to every individual. Following the family and partnership ideology singlehood is regarded as inferior and thus a temporary status; singlehood becomes subject to discrimination and stereotypic labelling while partnership is glorified. Stigmatisation of singlehood is based on various factors, most important being gender-related norms. Women, as opposed to men, are subjected to greater pressure to conform to marriage and family ideology due to normal gender construction implying that women have a more caring role. Singlehood stigmatisation is linked to age as well – singlehood at some age is less acceptable than in other. Single women between age 25 and 40 are most likely to deal with stigmatisation while singlehood among younger women is »more normal«. Negative stereotypes about single people are present at all ages but most likely for individuals over 40 years old (especially women). Dealing with stigmatisation demands a construction of different strategies, something used by single people on the forum; most common being construction of positive identity by ascribing positive characteristics to singlehood, portraying status as a choice and criticising partnership.
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