The Church respects the ability and moral right of experienced adults to make such choices. It has become increasingly common, in Western culture, for two individuals to live together in a shared relationship that includes sex but carries no commitment to enduring monogamy or fidelity. During recent years it has become more common, especially for young adults, elderly adults, and same-sex adults. It is now semi- respectable in Western culture. The Church officially disapproves of cohabitation.
Most people agree that the rising incidence of cohabitation in Western culture is deplorable.
It is perceived as a symptom of decline of the foundations of an orderly moral society. Some, especially those who have themselves experienced cohabitation as a valuable prelude to marriage, or have observed their adult children or adult friends in such an experience, have gradually and somewhat uncertainly formed the opinion that cohabitation is sometimes good. They regard it as certainly better than promiscuity. They have recognized that sometimes cohabitation provides an interim during which fears may be resolved, previous wounds may heal, and healthy commitment may become possible. Some, even though aware of the possible benefits, continue to place more emphasis upon the possible harm.