Final answer:
Marriage becoming deinstitutionalized refers to a shift in societal expectations and norms regarding marriage, leading to changes in traditional roles and expectations. This is seen through the acceptance of single parenting, cohabitation, and the increase in divorces and separations.
Step-by-step explanation:
When social scientists say that marriage has become "deinstitutionalized," they are referring to a shift in societal expectations and norms regarding marriage. This means that the traditional roles and expectations associated with marriage are changing and becoming less rigid.
For example, in recent years, single parenting and cohabitation (when a couple shares a residence but not a marriage) have become more acceptable, leading to a decline in the legal significance of marriage. Additionally, the increase in the number of divorces and separations has also contributed to the deinstitutionalization of marriage.
In some societies, the rise of alternative marriage forms, such as polygamy, is also seen as a form of deinstitutionalization. However, it is important to note that this is not the main meaning of deinstitutionalization when social scientists discuss marriage.