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Fact check: Does body count correlate with higher rates of divorce

Checked on September 14, 2025

1. Summary of the results

The analyses provided suggest a correlation between body count and higher rates of divorce [1] [2] [3]. Studies have found that individuals with multiple premarital sex partners are more likely to experience higher divorce rates and lower marital quality [1] [2]. Additionally, research suggests that sexually inexperienced individuals who have only had sex with their spouse are more likely to have a highly stable marriage [3]. However, other sources suggest that the timing of a person's sexual history may be more important than the total number of partners when it comes to long-term relationship suitability [4]. It is also worth noting that keeping score in relationships, which could be related to a high body count, can lead to decline [5].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Some sources suggest that the relationship between divorce and body count is complex [2], and that having multiple sex partners does not necessarily lead to higher divorce rates if the timing is right [4]. Furthermore, one source notes that the effect of multiple sex partners on marriage rates is temporary [6]. These alternative viewpoints highlight the need for a more nuanced understanding of the relationship between body count and divorce rates. It is also important to consider that personal opinions and anecdotes may not be supported by scientific research [7], and that empirical evidence is necessary to fully understand this relationship. The sources also highlight the importance of considering relationship stability [3] and marital quality [3] when examining the relationship between body count and divorce rates.

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement "Does body count correlate with higher rates of divorce" may be oversimplified, as the relationship between body count and divorce rates is complex [2] and influenced by various factors, such as timing [4] and relationship stability [3]. Additionally, some sources may be biased towards promoting sexual restraint [3], which could influence their findings and interpretations. It is also possible that personal opinions and anecdotes [7] may be presented as factual, which could lead to misinformation. Therefore, it is essential to consider multiple sources and viewpoints to gain a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between body count and divorce rates [1] [3] [2] [6] [5] [4].

Want to dive deeper?
What studies have investigated the link between body count and divorce rates?
Can a high body count before marriage predict relationship problems?
How does societal pressure influence the perception of body count in relationships?
Do couples with higher body counts report lower relationship satisfaction?
Are there any cultural differences in how body count affects marriage and relationships?