Adolescent premarital sexual activity, cohabitation, and attitudes toward marriage
Martin, P.D.; Martin, D.; Martin, M.
Adolescence 36(143): 601-609
2001
ISSN/ISBN: 0001-8449 PMID: 11817640 Document Number: 254667
Societal trends indicate ambivalent attitudes about marriage. Specifically, there is greater acceptance of divorce and nontraditional living arrangements such as cohabitation, as well as acceptance and prevalence of premarital sex, than in the past. The authors examine adolescent attitudes toward marriage and their association with premarital sexual activity and cohabitation. Recommendations for helping adolescents understand the realities of marriage and family life are shared.