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

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.

KEYWORDS:

• cohabitation
• family of origin
• romantic relationships