Marriage isn't for everyone nor is child rearing. I know people who have chosen to remain single and are perfectly happy with their choice. Likewise, I know couples who have elected to never have children and have no regrets. The problem with marriages in The Way was that you were expected to function as some sort of sales/tag team, with promotion of PFAL at the heart of your relationship.
It's all the same thing, in my opinion. I think we just cite the ages and genders to make it more tangible to our understanding, easier to feel the outrage it deserves. Otherwise, it would seem too surreal to comprehend.
I'm not so sure how effective pre-screening can really be. People who do these sorts of things have usually honed their skills to a virtuoso level when it comes to flying under the radar. As excie noted, Wierdwilly is a prime example.
Even after all the damning testimony, there are still people saying, "I didn't see nuttin'!" and, "Gosh, he sure was a swell fella!"
Why does that seem so familiar?
Someone here would try and waste your time
And someone here would try and lead you blind
Life seems to be wandering 'round and 'round
Searching for the "that" which can't be found
It's you, you, you
It's me, me, me
....It's all the same