Final answer:
Conservative or traditional individuals might use terms that connote a deviation from the norm to describe cohabitation. Cohabitation is often seen as a 'trial run' for marriage and has become more accepted over time. It does not significantly affect marital stability but is associated with later ages for marrying.
Step-by-step explanation:
More conservative or traditional people might describe cohabitation in terms that reflect their beliefs about the institution of marriage and familial structures. In general, traditional views emphasize the sanctity and stability that marriage contributes to society and individual well-being. Cohabitation, which refers to couples sharing a residence without being legally married, sometimes encounters opposition or critique from more traditional or conservative individuals.
Explaining the phenomena of cohabitation requires understanding why some couples choose it as an alternative or preamble to marriage. There are practical reasons, such as wanting to spend more time together or save on living costs, but it is also viewed as a trial run for marriage. According to research data, about 66 percent of married couples who cohabited without being engaged saw living together as a step toward marriage. Moreover, the reduction of social stigma has likely contributed to the increasing prevalence of cohabitation, showing a boost in acceptance over time.
Regarding its impact on marriage, cohabitation has been associated with marrying at an older age and sometimes is viewed as part of the evolving patterns of marriage. While once thought to potentially negatively affect the success of future marriages, recent research indicates that living together before marriage does not significantly affect marital stability, and in some cases, non-cohabitating couples have only slightly better longevity rates in marriage.
Therefore, while terms to describe cohabitation from a conservative or traditional perspective have not been explicitly stated in research, they would likely use words that connote a deviation from traditional marital and familial norms. It's essential to approach these topics comprehensively, keeping in mind the diversity of perspectives and respecting the choices of individuals concerning their relationships.