Shotgun weddings and the meaning of marriage in russia

This article examines the factors commonly thought to influence first marriage entry in industrialized countries, formulating a theoretical framework that identifies the ways in which these factors are modified by Soviet conditions. Using survey data collected in Voronezh, Russia, I utilize event history techniques to evaluate the influence of these factors on marital entry and timing among never-married pregnant women. Results indicate that education exerts a strong positive influence on marital entry. Household wealth and the baptismal status and religiosity of the respondent also influence marital entry.