However, he/she must be careful to not confuse feelings of lust with feelings of love. Although two people may feel they are ready and willing to accept the responsibilities this act entails, they must also consider the problems it can cause. A "no" to sexual activity can also be a "yes" to deeper communication and mutual appreciation. Human nature is such that sexual activity is intimately linked to one's emotional and psychological state. The ability to control one's sexual urges is part of human nature and also an important distinction between humans and animals. The practice of abstinence enables couples to exercise fidelity within a relationship. Many find that sexual activity is best when accompanied by the deep commitment of marriage and openness to the possibility of children. In the 1960s and 1970s, the small numbers of cohabiting couples in America could be fairly described as "anti-marriage". They were deliberately seeking an alternative to traditional marriage, an institution they viewed as "repressive". Today, however, many cohabiting couples have a different outlook. Rather than "anti-marriage," I feel it is more accurate to say that many of these couples are "anti-divorce". .
In 1969, two-thirds of young adults believed that premarital sex was wrong and 21% said it was acceptable. One year later, in 1970, 47% of young adults stilled believed for premarital sex to be immoral. Fifteen years later 52% of young adults said that premarital sex was acceptable. Today 60% of young adults believe that sex before marriage is acceptable and only 38% believe it to be wrong. (www.personal .psu.edu/facultyln/x/nxd10/transition/group24/premar.html) Experts believe that cohabitation has a big part on the outcome of a marriage. Also, couples who have sex before marriage tend to have lessened sexual habits and use sex for conceiving children.
"Cohabitation is a common and popular form of romantic partnership for young adults today.