Studies on the barriers to marriage focus on structural and interpersonal factors and largely ignore the influence of social context on marriage beliefs and behaviors. Drawing on social learning and diffusion perspectives, we use qualitative data to examine the ways that families, peers, and communities influence decision-making and behaviors surrounding marriage. The presence and type of relationship role models in the community, family of origin, and among peers influences relationship attitudes and decisions. Respondents are motivated to end the cycle of unhealthy relationships and build marital social capital to provide better role modeling for their children. (Author abstract)