Unique Characteristics of Cohabiters Seeking Therapy.
There is limited information on cohabiters presenting for therapy. The authors examined the characteristics of 143 married and 54 cohabiting, young (m = 30.39), Caucasian, couples presenting for therapy. We hypothesized that cohabiters presenting for therapy would be more satisfied and committed than married couples and that they would be similarly emotionally differentiated. We conducted a repeated-measures MANOVA to test the hypothesis. Significant effects between partners and between dyads were found, indicating a difference between clients based on relationship status. Cohabiting clients presented earlier in their relationship and were more satisfied and committed. Cohabiting male partners were less emotionally reactive. Without the institutionalized rules of marriage, cohabiting couples may perceive threats to their relationship earlier than married couples.
The Ohio State University.
Samuel
S
Shannon
The Ohio State University.
Suzanne
S
Bartle-Harring
D000328:Adult; D019546:Couples Therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008388:Marital Therapy; D012747:Sexual Partners / Q000523:psychology*; D018454:Spouses / Q000523:psychology*