Dating 101: Do You See Marriage in Your Future?

Despite our love of 'bling', it seems that "Generation Me" doesn't feel the need to validate our relationships with a flashy diamond and wedding bells.

AOL Personals, in conjunction with Zogby International, released a survey which said that "more than 4 in 10 Americans, including 55% in their 20's, don't believe that they need to be married to validate the commitment of a long-term relationship." In fact, nearly half of those surveyed said that they would consider dating someone who said they weren't even interested in a long-term relationship.

With our relaxed morals about marriage – no thanks to you, Britney! – it makes sense that so many of us don't view marriage as the ultimate sign of commitment. I have noticed in my own experiences with women my age that many of them claim that they don't want to get married. They just aren't sure if it's the right thing for them.

And you know what? I think this is fabulous. Marriage is not something that should be taken lightly. I think it's a commitment that should only be made when it can be followed through. "'Till death do us part" is one statement I'm okay not saying until I can really, truly mean it.

How do you girls feel about marriage these days? Is it still in your life plan? And if not, why?

Check out the results from the AOL Personals love survey here.

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