Youth Perceptions of Cohabitation: Results of a Sociological Study (Based on Data from the Republic of Mordovia)

The article analyzes youth perceptions of cohabitation as a social phenomenon. The relevance of the topic stems from the ongoing transformation of the institution of the family, the growing popularity of unregistered partnerships, and the need to understand the marriage and family strategies of the younger generation. The study aims to identify the specific features of how male and female young adults perceive cohabitation and to determine its role in their life plans (based on data from the Republic of Mordovia). Based on a sociological survey, the article shows that most young people interpret “common-law marriage” as cohabitation without legal registration. Furthermore, cohabitation is more often viewed as a transitional stage toward official marriage rather than as an alternative to it. The study also reveals gender differences in the assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of cohabitation. The author proposes key areas of work with young people aimed at forming constructive marriage and family strategies.