They are committed or think they are committed to getting married. They want to first see if they are compatible by practicing marriage. They have fewer problems than the other three relationships, but statistically they are still no better off in the long run for having successful marriages. Most cohabiting couples are not living together after four years. The people who move in together, who plan to someday marry, who are 'so in love' and are 'so happy', are not going to be together at all within four years.
Relationships can be the source of great joy or great pain.
You'll feel better if you're actively doing something toward that end. Peggy Vaughan and James Vaughan , Ph. All Rights Reserved.