Transitioning into Cohabitation Early in a Relationship: Associations With Family of Origin Assessments and Couple Outcomes

Keywords

cohabitation, family of origin, romantic relationships

Abstract

The present authors used data from 1,920 heterosexual, never-married individuals to assess the differences on couple outcomes and family of origin evaluations between early cohabiters and early daters. Early cohabiters were individuals who were living with their romantic partner in relationships that were less than 1 year old. Results suggested that once common demographic controls were factored in, the dating group was not associated with differences in couple outcomes but was significantly related to differences in family of origin variables. Early cohabiters were found to report less positive relationships with their mothers growing up compared to noncohabiting early daters. These results are discussed in light of the growing importance of considering both timing and contextual factors when investigating the causes and consequences of cohabitation.

Original Publication Citation

Willoughby, B. J. & Jones, N.* (2012). Transitioning into cohabitation early in a relationship: Associations with family of origin assessments and couple outcomes. Journal of Couple and Relationship Therapy, 11, 238-253 .

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2012-06-09

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/7880

Publisher

Journal of Couple & Relationship Therapy

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Family Life

University Standing at Time of Publication

Associate Professor

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