Final answer:
The claim that women find security primarily in marriage or cohabitation to escape competition anxiety is overly simplistic and does not account for the increasing independence and contentment of contemporary women with their single status. Cohabitation often serves as a "trial run" for marriage, and today's societal norms allow women to lead satisfying lives without being defined by their marital status.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement posits that marriage or cohabitation provides women with a sense of security, which relieves competition anxiety experienced during dating. This is a complex issue, but using the provided references, the overall sentiment that women only find security in marriage or cohabitation can be considered falsely generalized. More recent research suggests that women have become more independent and are more capable of living fulfilling lives without a spouse or domestic partner. Additionally, the dynamics of cohabitation have evolved, and many view it not as a permanent solution but as a "trial run" for marriage, with research showing that pre-marital cohabitation has little impact on the success of a marriage. Historical perspectives showed that marriage often meant a woman came under the legal control of her husband and his estate. However, contemporary women, particularly those above thirty-five years of age, who have secured education and career success, report feeling secure and content with their unmarried status, counteracting the argument that marriage or cohabitation is primarily a shelter from anxiety or competition.
Cohabitation today is more fluid, with many couples viewing living together as a cost-effective choice or a step towards a more committed relationship. Yet, independence among modern women has risen, allowing them to lead lives that aren't centered solely on marital status. The pressure to marry and the scrutiny women face is acknowledged, but it is no longer a definitive measure of happiness or security.