A review of the available social science evidence suggests that living together is not a good way to prepare for marriage or to avoid divorce. What’s more, it shows that the rise in cohabitation is not a positive family trend. Cohabiting unions tend to weaken the institution of marriage and pose special risks for women and children. Specifically, the research indicates that: living together before marriage increases the risk of breaking up after marriage; living together outside of marriage increases the risk of domestic violence for women; and the risk of physical and sexual abuse for children. Unmarried couples have lower levels of happiness and wellbeing than married couples. (Author abstract, modified).