Final answer:
In the United States, neolocal residence patterns are still prevalent, but they can be influenced by economic, social, and familial factors. The trend towards urbanization and suburban living has shaped these patterns since the 1950s, and Americans' migration habits further influence postmarital residences.
Step-by-step explanation:
Neolocal residence patterns, where a newly married couple establishes an independent household not connected to either spouse's family, are still practiced in the US. However, these patterns can change based on economic, social, or familial circumstances. Urbanization and a shift from rural to suburban living have influenced the postmarital residence patterns in the US, especially since the 1950s. Now, a significant majority of Americans live in suburban areas, which may impact decisions on whether to follow a neolocal residence pattern or live closer to family members.
While neolocal residence is commonly associated with bilateral descent and is often seen as a norm, the actual living arrangements of newly married couples can vary widely. Economic stress, housing availability, and familial needs can lead to a couple living with one partner's parents or other relatives. These adaptations reflect the flexibility of American society in accommodating changing circumstances, demonstrating that while the idea of setting up an independent household remains idealized, the reality can be quite diverse.
Migration patterns within the United States also play a role in shaping where people live and how they form their postmarital residences. The massive rural-to-urban shift and intermigration among regions contribute to the fluid nature of where people end up living, which in turn can affect whether they establish neolocal residences or not.