Final answer:
Couples cohabitate for reasons like closer bonds, cost savings, or to test marital compatibility, with cohabitation rates rising especially among individuals aged 25 to 34. Cohabitation doesn't significantly affect marriage success, and societal views on cohabitation have become more positive. This shift and the trend of delayed marriages are indicative of changing marriage patterns and societal norms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Reasons for Cohabitation and Its Effects on MarriagCouples may choose to cohabitate for various reasons, such as spending more time together, saving on living costs, or as a "trial run" for marriage. Cohabitation is increasingly common, especially among 25- to 34-year-olds. Interestingly, the decision to live together without marriage does not significantly impact the success rate of future marriages. In fact, those who cohabitate before getting married do not have better rates of remaining married after ten years compared to those who do not live together before marriage. With changing social norms, cohabitation has become more acceptable and less detrimental to society's perception, as shown by the reduction in the number of people who view cohabitation negatively.Additionally, the increasing prevalence of cohabitation reflects socio-economic and demographic trends such as delayed marriage and placing higher priority on education and careers. As societal attitudes evolve, marriage patterns are also changing, with many couples delaying marriage longer than previous generations. The median age for first-time marriage is now at a historic high, and cohabitation plays a part in this trend. Whether as a lead-in to marriage or an alternative to it, cohabitation is reshaping traditional family structures and altering how relationships are viewed in contemporary society.