This paper comments on three studies that explored influences on couple relationships. One study has an ethnographic focus (Edin, England, and Linnenberg), another combines large sample survey research with ethnographic methods (Cherlin, Burton, Hurt, and Purvin), and the third relies on large sample methods using complex econometric analyses (Ahituv and Lerman). Findings from the studies indicate: Women who have experienced physical abuse or sexual abuse are less likely to be married or to be in stable, long-term cohabiting relationships than women who have not experienced those assaults; Married men have a more stable job profile than all other groups, job stability and opportunity promotes marital stability, and marriage increases job stability and earnings for men; and among unmarried couples having a child out of wedlock from a sub-sample of couples in the Fragile Family research project(s), gender (sexual) distrust is a powerful and corrosive dynamic. Implications of the studies and recommendations for future research are discussed. 10 references. (Author abstract modified)