OPTION 1 – Families and relationships
Outline two ways reasons for the increase in cohabitation
Illustrate your answer with examples.
OCR
A Level
2020
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Essay Outline: Reasons for the Increase in Cohabitation
This essay will explore two key reasons for the rise in cohabitation: changing social attitudes and the transformation of intimacy. It will draw on sociological perspectives and empirical evidence to illustrate these explanations.
Introduction
Introduce the topic of cohabitation and its increasing prevalence. Briefly define cohabitation and its significance in contemporary society. State the two main reasons to be explored: changing social attitudes and the transformation of intimacy.
Body Paragraph 1: Changing Social Attitudes
AO1: Knowledge and Understanding
- Shifting Social Norms: Cohabitation has become more socially acceptable and normalized over time. Cite evidence from studies like the British Social Attitudes surveys or Beaujouan & Bhrolchaín to support this trend.
- Decline of Family Values: The New Right perspective argues that cohabitation represents a decline in traditional family values. Explain this perspective and its criticisms.
- Individualization: The theories of Beck and Beck-Gernsheim demonstrate how individualization and the focus on personal fulfillment contribute to the rise of non-marital relationships. Briefly explain their key concepts.
AO2: Application
- Examples: Provide concrete examples of how these changing attitudes have influenced societal views on cohabitation. For instance, discuss the increasing acceptance of cohabiting couples in the media, workplaces, and legal systems.
- Contrasting Views: Acknowledge alternative perspectives on the increasing acceptance of cohabitation, such as the argument that it is not necessarily indicative of a decline in family values but rather a shift in its definition.
Body Paragraph 2: Transformation of Intimacy
AO1: Knowledge and Understanding
- Confluent Love: Anthony Giddens' theory of confluent love emphasizes the importance of emotional fulfillment and personal growth within relationships. Explain how his concept of "pure relationships" contributes to the rise of cohabitation.
- Cohabitation as a Prelude to Marriage: Studies like Jamieson et al. suggest that cohabitation often serves as a trial period before marriage. Explain this perspective and its implications.
AO2: Application
- Real-World Examples: Illustrate the concept of confluent love and its impact on cohabitation with real-world examples. For instance, discuss how couples might choose to cohabitate to evaluate their compatibility and personal growth before making a commitment to marriage.
- Practical Considerations: Discuss how practical reasons, like the increasing costs of weddings, might contribute to couples choosing cohabitation as an alternative or a precursor to marriage.
Conclusion
Summarize the two main reasons for the increase in cohabitation: changing social attitudes and the transformation of intimacy. Briefly re-emphasize the key arguments and connect them to the overall theme of cohabitation as a significant shift in family structures in contemporary society. Acknowledge any limitations or alternative perspectives on the topic.
Outline two reasons for the increase in cohabitation
Cohabitation, the act of living together as a couple without being married, has witnessed a significant surge in recent decades. This essay will outline two key reasons for this trend: changing social attitudes and the rising costs associated with marriage.
Firstly, evolving societal norms have played a crucial role in normalizing cohabitation. Historically, cohabitation was often stigmatized and perceived as living in sin. However, contemporary Western societies have undergone a considerable shift in values. As highlighted by Beaujouan and Bhrolchaín, and evidenced by the British Social Attitudes surveys, cohabitation is no longer viewed as unconventional or a threat to the institution of marriage. Instead, it's often seen as a valid lifestyle choice, reflecting a broader trend of individualization (Beck and Beck-Gernsheim). This shift has made cohabitation more appealing, particularly to younger generations who prioritize personal autonomy and flexibility.
Secondly, the increasing financial burden of marriage has further fueled the rise of cohabitation. Weddings, in particular, have become increasingly lavish and expensive, often placing a significant financial strain on couples. For many, cohabiting offers a more practical and economically viable alternative. It allows couples to share living expenses, build financial stability together, and potentially even save for a future wedding, should they choose to marry later. This pragmatism is particularly relevant in the context of rising living costs and economic uncertainty, making cohabitation a sensible choice for couples prioritizing financial security.
In conclusion, the rise in cohabitation can be attributed to a complex interplay of factors. The normalization of cohabitation, driven by evolving social attitudes and the desire for individual autonomy, has removed much of the stigma previously associated with it. Simultaneously, the escalating costs of marriage, particularly weddings, have made cohabitation a more practical and appealing option for couples navigating financial pressures. As society continues to evolve, it's likely that cohabitation will remain a prevalent lifestyle choice, reflecting broader shifts in social values and economic realities.
Free Mark Scheme Extracts
AO1: Knowledge and Understanding
The following list is indicative of possible factors/evidence that candidates may refer to but is not prescriptive or exhaustive:
- Changing social attitudes: Cohabitation has become the norm / more socially acceptable. (Beaujouan & Bhrolchaín; British Social attitudes surveys)
- The perceived “decline of family values” (New Right perspective)
- Individualisation (Beck and Beck-Gernsheim)
- Transformation and intimacy and the rise of confluent love (Giddens)
- Cohabitation as a prelude to marriage (e.g. Jamieson et al).
- Changing role of women and the influence of feminism.
- Practical reasons – e.g. increasing cost of weddings.
- Any other relevant point.
AO2: Application
The selected knowledge should be directly related to the specific question.