Systematic observation methods were used to investigate the nature of communication in a cross-sectional study of 80 dating and engaged couples that were grouped into dating stages of various degrees of commitment. Results indicate more communication of the critical kind was in evidence at later stages of dating. (Author/EJT)

There has been an enormous increase in the number of unmarried cohabiting couples in Sweden and Denmark and a decrease in the marriage rate. Is unmarried cohabitation a deviant behavior? This question is discussed and the answer is given that in Sweden it is not. (Author)