Multidimensional Analysis of Psychological, Emotional, and Social Mechanisms Influencing the Tendency Toward Cohabitation Without Marriage Among Urban Iranian Youth

Abstract

Cohabitation without marriage has become an increasingly visible relational pattern among urban youth, reflecting broader changes in social norms, economic pressures, and the evolving meaning of intimacy. As traditional pathways to partnership are reshaped by shifting expectations regarding autonomy, emotional security, and long-term commitment, understanding the motives and psychological outcomes associated with non-marital cohabitation has gained growing academic significance. This study examines the psychological, emotional, and social mechanisms that influence young adults’ tendency toward cohabitation without marriage, focusing on the complex interplay between individual developmental needs and structural forces within modern urban environments. The analysis highlights how emerging adulthood, identity formation, and relational expectations intersect with contextual factors such as financial instability, delayed marriage trends, educational transitions, and exposure to diverse lifestyles. Emotional dimensions, including attachment needs, intimacy expectations, and perceived safety within relationships, are considered central in shaping decisions to enter cohabitation. Psychological outcomes such as relationship adjustment, emotional well-being, life satisfaction, and mental health indicators constitute another key dimension of this inquiry. These outcomes are further linked to relational dynamics such as communication patterns, conflict management, and perceived flexibility within non-marital partnerships. The study also explores the role of cultural norms and social values, particularly in societies undergoing rapid modernization, where tensions may arise between traditional family expectations and contemporary attitudes toward partnership. Within these contexts, cohabitation may be seen as a strategy for gaining autonomy, testing compatibility, or navigating economic barriers to formal marriage. At the same time, the emotional instability associated with relationship dissolution, lack of structural support, and ambiguous commitment levels may pose psychological challenges for young adults. By adopting a multidimensional approach, this research provides a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms driving the choice of cohabitation without marriage and its emotional and psychological implications. The findings offer valuable insights for family counselors, mental health professionals, and policymakers seeking to address the evolving needs of young adults in urban settings. The study ultimately emphasizes the importance of context-sensitive, culturally informed perspectives when evaluating the motivations and consequences associated with non-marital cohabitation.