My Thoughts on Cohabitation and the Decline of Marriages

My Thoughts on Cohabitation and the Decline of Marriages

There are several social factors that have contributed to the rise of cohabitation and the decline of marriage. Many years ago there was a high expectation for women to marry and have children. There was an extreme significance placed on women being housewives. They were looked down upon when a husband and children were not in the plan. Women in today’s society have wider ambitions. They are more motivated to start careers and focus on individuality versus just family. As a result, there are fewer marriages due to different priorities. Another societal change is the cost of living and financial restraints.

In today’s society, there is less emphasis on the sacredness and importance of marriage. In the past, people believed that living with someone before marriage was a sin and disrespected strong family values and the commitment that marriage stood for. People today do not put a sign emphasis on the symbolism of marriage. Some want to have the opportunity to live with their significant other before marriage in an effort to determine their compatibility. Parts of society feel that it is more important to test the waters before diving in.

Another aspect that has changed in society is the attitude toward life and relationships. People’s values and ethics have changed. It is a more free and open society with less restrictions on relationships. People have less constraints and views on how people should live their life and there is less conformity with regards to how to have a relationship. As a result, living together seems like a natural step because there is less focus on formal forms of commitment. For some marriage means a commitment that is recognized by law and this could mean discourse due to assets and children. Cohabitation, eliminates the possibility due to the lack of legality.