Final answer:
The prevailing message is that marriage is still ideal in contemporary US society, but individuals are more cautious and considerate about when and how they enter into it. This reflects broader societal changes and evolving perceptions of the institution of marriage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The bottom line message about marriage expectations in the contemporary US is that people still view marriage as ideal, but they are more cautious about achieving that goal ('a' option). With societal changes such as the increase in single parenting, cohabitation, and the emphasis on education and career, the approach to marriage has become more pragmatic and less rushed. Additionally, the idea of marriage as an institution is evolving, and while the commitment to marriage remains important, the patterns and timing of entering into marriage are changing. People are getting married at later ages, and some are prioritizing other life goals over traditional marriage. This indicates a shift towards a more cautious approach to marriage, rather than a decline in the commitment ethic, an expectation of marriage being easy, or an anticipation of multiple marriages.