Cohabitation
Before the meeting
Articles
(Read two or more)
Cohabitation is Not for Marriage Prep
How is a relationship which is based on having no commitment, contains multiple incentives for failure, and contains a built-in disadvantage for women good preparation for marriage?
How Moving in Together Makes It Harder to Know If He’s the One
If “what if” is engrained from the beginning of living together, it may be more difficult to change that thinking, even after marrying.
The Downside of Cohabiting Before Marriage
The author, in the last paragraph, states the odd conclusion (after listing all the dangers) that she is not against cohabitation. Do you agree with her conclusion?
Suffer the Little Children: Cohabitation and the Abuse of America’s Children
The Three Myths of Cohabitation
The surprising results of a new international study on cohabitation and its impact on kids.
Marriage Surpasses Cohabitation in Relationship Quality, but Few Americans Know It
Pew survey also shows that most Americans, especially younger generations, increasingly embrace popular myths about cohabitation that are not reflected in the reality of these relationships or backed up by research.
Videos
(Watch one or more)
Cohabitating, Shacking Up, or Playing House
Is it just a piece of paper? Does marriage matter? (3 minutes)
Cohabitation vs. Marriage
Living together before marriage introduces a host of unfavorable circumstances into a relationship. (1:08)
Marriage & Cohabitation
Living together and a consumer mentality go hand in hand. (3 minutes)
Supplemental Resources
Cohabitation vs. Marriage: Guide to Family Issues
A compilation of peer-reviewed research, expert commentary and sound logical arguments regarding the consequences to society when adult men and women cohabit prior to marriage.
Couples who delay having sex get benefits later, study suggests
“Regardless of religiosity, waiting [to engage in sex until after marriage] helps the relationship form better communication processes, and these help improve long-term stability and relationship satisfaction.”
Three Reasons Why Cohabitation Doesn’t Work
Despite the popularity of this growing living arrangement, there are at least three reasons cohabitation fails to provide the best preparation for a lasting, committed relationship.
BOOK
The Ring Makes All the Difference
by Glenn T. Stanton
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Why not live together?
Many believe nothing is better for their future marriage than a trial period—cohabitation. It’s the fastest growing family type in the U.S. So how’s that working out? Are people truly happier?
Author Glenn Stanton offers a compelling factual case that nearly every area of health and happiness is increased by marriage and decreased by cohabitation.
Talking Points
Resources to help you discuss with friends and family.
Social Media Resources
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Advocacy Tips
Get involved in your community and local governments to make a difference.