"We found that differences between marriage and cohabitation tend to be small and dissipate after a honeymoon period. Also while married couples experienced health gains -- likely linked to the formal benefits of marriage such as shared health care plans -- cohabiting couples experienced greater gains in happiness and self-esteem. For some, cohabitation may come with fewer unwanted obligations than marriage and allow for more flexibility, autonomy and personal growth," said Kelly Musick, associate professor of policy analysis and management at Cornell's College of Human Ecology, who co-authored the study with sociologist Larry Bumpass of the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
MORE: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/01/120124183755.htm?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed28ScienceDaily29
