Final answer:
Married couples' opinions on social and political issues tend to become more similar the longer they are married, which is exemplified through longitudinal research. Voting behavior studies also indicate that being in a stable marital relationship can influence one's civic engagement and voting habits. Societal norms and personal experiences significantly shape individuals' views and behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
The study of married couples indicating that the longer they had been married, the more similar their opinions on social and political issues, can be related to the concept of longitudinal research. This type of research allows for the observation of the same individuals over time, providing insights into how opinions and behaviors might align within a closely connected social unit, such as a married couple.
Furthermore, the study of voting behavior shows that more settled individuals, which often includes those who are married, tend to vote more frequently. This could suggest that being in a stable marital relationship might not only influence one's opinions to become similar to those of their spouse over time but may also affect their civic engagement, such as voting habits.
It is also important to consider that societal norms and personal experiences play a significant role in shaping individuals' views and behaviors. As societal attitudes and laws change, such as those regarding same-sex marriage or cohabitation, individuals' opinions and behaviors are likely to evolve as well.