Abstract In this paper the author explores the declining significance of marriage and the increasing acceptance of premarital sex, cohabitation and unmarried childbearing. The author looks at the importance of family to Americans despite the decline in marriage and analyses the implications of cohabitation before marriage and the impact it can have on children and society. He defines cohabitation and looks at statistics of how long cohabitation lasts and what it can lead to, separation or marriage. In conclusion the author states that marriage has lost its primacy as the visible hub of the family but the issue of main concern is the one of social change and how family patterns express and contribute to this change.
From the Paper "According to common understanding, the idea of premarital cohabitation is for the couples to learn about each other and increase their chances for a successful marriage. Although this is what it suggests, the evidence however takes a turn for the opposite. Premarital cohabitation ends up in lower marital quality and higher risk of divorce. Two explanations have been posed to explain the association. The first is termed the selection explanation. This refers to the idea that people who cohabit before marriages do so because of their non traditional values and attitudes or poor relationship skills which increases the risk of marital instability. The second explanation is that there is disruption of one's characteristics from the beginning of the cohabitation."
Abstract 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."
Abstract This paper focuses on cohabitation, divorce and stepfamilies. The paper discusses each of these issues in relation to the impact that it has on the individuals within society and the facts that are connected to the life events. The paper uses the work of Ross Eshleman to explore each of these concerns, with the research offering facts that are connected to the most current state of cohabitation, divorce and stepfamilies
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Cohabitation Divorce
Stepfamilies
Conclusion
From the Paper "Eshleman (2003) states that all 50 states in the nation have divorce laws that are specific to the state . According to Eshleman (2003), the most common grounds for divorce include "breakdown of marriage. Incompatibility, cruelty, desertion...[or] irreconcilable differences." Children within a marriage will tend to have an affect on whether or not a divorce is pursued if the children are in their preschool years and born during the marriage. However, when children have been born previous to the marriage or are in the teen years the impact that they have on divorce in increased."
Abstract This paper explores the current state of cohabitation from a historical and from a sociological perspective in order to best demonstrate why cohabitation is currently a more accepted form of lifestyle for an unwed couple.
Abstract This paper studies modern arrangements regarding marriage and cohabitation. The paper compares and contrasts current practices to those throughout history. The paper also examines modern attitudes about love and commitment.
From the Paper "Marriage has been part of both human discourse and social organization across cultures and down the centuries. One aspect of this is the historical custom of marriage as an affair of state undertaken, for example, by the royal houses of Europe to cement alliances..."
A dissertation comparing marital satisfaction among married couples who had cohabitated prior to marriage with those that did not cohabitate before marriage.
Abstract This paper examines the effect of cohabitation on couples and their level of marital satisfaction and dissolution. It hypothesizes that cohabitation has a statistically significant impact on marital satisfaction and uses a sample consisting of forty married individuals; twenty couples whom had not cohabited prior to marriage and twenty married couples whom had cohabited prior to marriage.
Outline
Chapter 1: Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Purpose of Study
Significance of Study
Overview of Study
Definition of Terms
Chapter 2: Review of Relevant Literature
Chapter 3: Methodology
Description of the Study Approach
Data-Gathering Method and Database of Study
Subjects
Instrument
Design
Procedure
Chapter 4: Conceptual Framework and Social Exchange Theory
From the Paper "By any measure, marriage in the United States is a crap shoot, and the odds are definitely stacked against people getting married for the first time today. Current estimates suggest that fully 50 percent of all first-time marriages nationwide will end in divorce (Martin, Martin, Martin & Specter, 2003), and 60 percent of first-time marriages in the State of Georgia will end in divorce today, and the problem appears to be getting worse instead of better. The economic consequences of these failed relationships are staggering, certainly, but the emotional toll they exact on the individuals involved is inestimable, and can have lifelong implications for their divorcing partners and their children (Martin et al., 2003). In fact, the fear of becoming divorced may compel many people to cohabitate and there may be an environmental component involved as well. "
Abstract The author looks at the issue of cohabitation and whether or not it is really a viable alternative to marriage. Several issues are investigated including, the legal, social, economic and religious ramifications, at each of the different ages and stages in a person's life in order to determine the success or failure cohabitation.
From the Paper "Alternative views suggest that cohabitation represents a more progressive approach to intimate relationships. Young people today are more willing to exercise choice in sexual and domestic arrangements, unlike their parent's and grandparent's generations. In the past few decades there has been a significant rise in the visibility and acceptance of the gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, and transgender community. Same sex partners account for 11% of cohabitating relationships. Young people see cohabitation as a lack of financial entanglement and as a promoter of independence. Living together without marriage, while once unheard of in society, has become commonplace. Unlike homosexual couples, whose fights to create a legal union is front-page news, cohabitation is even promoted by some parents."
This paper examines cohabitation from a sociological perspective: Definition, religion, gender, racial & ethnic issues, marriage, decision to cohabit and frequency.
2,250 words (approx. 9 pages), 27 sources, 1995, $ 79.95
From the Paper "This research examines the phenomenon of cohabitation from a sociological perspective. Cohabitation is defined, and the relationships between cohabitation and a variety of social and demographic factors are reviewed.
Defining Cohabitation
Cohabitation is defined as the practice of unmarried heterosexual couples living together in a common residence. Cohabitation is, among other things, a public acknowledgment of the existence of an intimate sexual relationship between the members of an unmarried heterosexual couple. While cohabitation is not the only type of intimate nonmarital relationship, ... "
Abstract The paper discusses and compares the legal provisions governing the rights and obligations of both married and unmarried couples, heterosexual and homosexual. The paper concludes with a discussion on whether marriage should be considered redundant.
Outline:
Introduction
A Background to Marriage and Cohabitation Legal Differences Between Marriage and Cohabitation - Then and Now
Provisions Applicable Equally to Both Married and Non-Married Couples
Provisions Advantageous to Married Couples
Provisions Advantageous to Non-Married Couples
Conclusion Is Marriage Redundant?
From the Paper "The advent of cohabitation has brought with it surprisingly little change in legal status. Contrary to a widely held common belief, merely living together doesn't create a "common law marriage" , and the disparity in legal rights accorded to those who are cohabiting as opposed to married causes unmarried couples to "face immense and distressing difficulties in securing legal recognition of their caring and enduring family lives ". They are unable to enjoy full rights to common property, be treated as the next of kin by state agencies, and cannot even register their partner's death or sign for their funeral. The law is even more guarded when dealing with gay or lesbian couples. In Fitzpatrick v Sterling HA , the court had to consider the question of whether the applicant, the deceased's gay partner, was eligible to succeed to the tenancy. The court held that he could be considered as a "member of the deceased tenant's family ". In the wake of this decision however, and that of Mendoza v Ghaidan , the stance of the law on this matter is changing."
A discussion on whether the legal institution of marriage remains fundamentally important in family law, or whether the law is now based upon a wider concept of family.
Abstract Different forms and definitions of family may have found greater acceptance in modern society but marriage still stands as the supreme form of family relations. This essay discusses how the concept of family has evolved over time, from the formalist conception to the subjective approach and how cohabitation is increasingly undermining the traditional concept of the family.
Outline
Introduction
Marriage and the Law
What Makes Marriage Special under the Law?
Privileges of Marriage
Conclusion
From the Paper "Unlike mere cohabitation and other forms living arrangements, marriage provides greater security. As soon as the marriage takes places, operations of law automatically applies to the couple, thus, affording both parties and their children greater protection. "The current law affecting cohabitation fails to provide people with adequate protection, particularly on relationship breakdown." Children of married couples enjoy more security as the Court can order the re-distribution of finances of couples in cases of divorce, based on the doctrine of equitable contributions set out in the case of Midlandbank v Cooke (1995). Under the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973, the Court can assess maintenance payments and adjust spouses' interest in property. "
Abstract This paper discusses the changes in marriage and life for the married man over the past 100 years. The author reviews reasons for marriage and not marrying, divorce rates, children in divorce, remarrying, cohabitation, social changes, gender equality and changes in the workplace. The paper states that all of this topics impact the life of the married man. Includes an annotated bibliography.
From the Paper "In his book, "Between Sex and Power Family in the World", Goran Therborn discusses changes in the family and family roles over the past century. He points out that, though people hold strong views on the subject, few are truly aware of the facts. Although the high ..."
Abstract This paper examines how, over the past four decades, the nation's marriage rate has dropped significantly, how many marriages in the United States now end in divorce, and how the number of households with unmarried couples has risen dramatically. It contends that whether it be same-sex marriage, cohabitation, remaining single, or even simply delaying marriage - whatever the case may be, it is evident that marriage as it once was in the United States is no longer.
From the Paper "First, what exactly is marriage? Marriage has meant very different things in different places at different times. The idea of choosing a mate or "marrying for love" became commonplace in the 18th and 19th centuries and only in some cultures (Masci, 2004). Marriages are still arranged by families throughout much of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East today. Moreover polygamy - long rejected by Western cultures - is common in many Muslim countries and various ethnic groups. Still there have been some constants, especially here in the United States. For instance, until recently, most people saw marriage as a necessary rite of passage into adulthood, rather than a choice (Masci, 2004). Furthermore, definitions of marriage were - and to some degree still are - largely dictated by the Judeo-Christian ethic, which sees marriage as a permanent, unbreakable union between a man and a woman. "
Abstract In this paper, the writer proposes legislation in the areas of driving while distracted and of wearing a helmet when motorcycling. The writer then recommends the repeal of two Mississippi criminal laws, one law regarding illegitimate children and the other law prohibiting adultery, fornication and cohabitation. The writer also recommends strengthening a California law prohibiting the throwing of any lit or non-lit cigarette, cigar, match or any flaming or glowing substance and modifying Megan's law to require actively releasing information to the public.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Proposed Legislation
Driving While Distracted
Motorcycle Helmet Law
Recommended Repeals
Illegitimate Children
Mississippi Law Prohibiting Adultery, Fornication and Cohabitation Recommended Modifications
Throwing or Discharging Cigarette
Needed Modification
Megan's Law
Needed Modification
Summary
From the Paper "Mississippi is attempting to reduce their welfare roles by making the mother of a second illegitimate child subject to incarceration or a fine or both. Restricting the right of procreation is a violation of the United States Constitution. Other states have passed laws tempting to reduce the number of people on welfare. These laws do not restrict the right of procreation. A person can have as many children as she wants but only two of those children will receive welfare benefits."
Tags: distraction, social structure, alaska testimony filters
Abstract This paper discusses the pros and cons of teaching solely in English in the United States. The author explains how the advantages convince us that we should adopt instruction in English nationwide in order to live up to our reputation as a land of equality among our residents. The paper also discusses how teaching in languages alienates English speakers from non-English speakers.
From the paper:
"In the United States, we residents are well known for our diversity and ability to accept many different things. The battle over the most effective way to teach our children has resulted in an ongoing debate between teaching in the English language or bilingual education. Not only has bilingual education been a failure in many parts of the country, but also a waste of precious financial resources. The prevailing language in the U.S. is English, and it has worked well to keep the country united. With a high number of diverse cultures cohabitating, the assortment of languages has served to promote ethnic elitism. Those who do not speak English fluently are incessantly among lower social classes."
Tags: bilingual, children, education, spanish, teach, class, melting, pot, u.s.
Abstract According to Sue, Sue and Sue (1994) domestic violence can be defined as physical abuse committed by a spouse, a former spouse, boyfriend or girlfriend, or a cohabitant upon another person in the family. Reiss and Roth (1993) report that domestic violence occurs, on average, every 15 seconds in the United States alone, which translates to more than 2.5 million victims each year.
From the Paper "ANGER AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Introduction
According to Sue, Sue and Sue (1994) domestic violence can be defined as physical abuse committed by a spouse, a former spouse, boyfriend or girlfriend, or a cohabitant upon another person in the family. Reiss and Roth (1993) report that domestic violence occurs, on average, every 15 seconds in the United States alone, which translates to more than 2.5 million victims each year. The authors further note that males are far more likely than females to be the perpetrators of domestic violence.
While there are many factors that play an etiologic and/or contributory role in acts of domestic violence, one of the most important of these is anger (Sue, Sue & Sue, 1994). The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of anger as it relates to domestic violence..."
