Cohabitation

Paper Summary:

This paper examines the reasons for the increase in cohabitation among unmarried couples. It bases its discussion on symbolic interactionism and constructionism. The paper looks at the statistics over the last few decades and discusses reasons for the rise in the number of cohabiting couples. It then discusses the social effects of the rise, particularly on the couples and children resulting from their union.

Table of Contents:
The Rise Of Cohabitation
Social Effects

From the Paper:

"Research is still being conducted regarding the effects of cohabitation unions on children, especially since statistics show that at least two-fifths of children in the country live with their mother and one cohabitating father. Early research shows that children in such households may be disadvantaged in terms of family income, as cohabitating couples tend to earn less than their married counterparts (Bumpass and Lu 1999). These children are also more likely to undergo transitions in family structures (Ogden 2005). Parents and guardians need to take these needs into account to take care of their children's well-being."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Amato, P., D. Johnson, A. Booth, S. Rogers. 2003. "Continuity and change in marital quality between 1980 and 2000." Journal of Marriage and Family. Vol.65, Iss. 1
• Bumpass, LL and H. Lu. 1999. Trends in cohabitation and implications for children's family contexts in the US CDE Work Paper No. 98-15. Center for Demography Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison.
• Caspar, LM and PN Cohen. 2000. "How does POSSLQ measure up? Historical estimates of cohabitation." Demography. 2000.
• Eggebeen, D. 2005. "Cohabitation and Exchanges of Support." Social Forces. Vol.83, Iss. 3
• Lewis, J. 2001. "Debates and issues regarding marriage and cohabitation in the British and American literature." International Journal of Law, Policy and the Family. Vol.15, Iss. 1

More papers on Cohabitation:

• Article Review # 144224 : "The Cohabitation Epidemic"
• Term Paper # 103196 : "Cohabitation in the United States"
• Essay # 67157 : "Cohabitation"
• Term Paper # 104123 : "Cohabitation, Divorce and Stepfamilies"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: