Why are some couples choosing to cohabitate before marriage? What effect does cohabitation have on marriage?

To see if they are compatible for marriage.

Explanation:

Most couple nowadays cohabit before getting married. They do so mainly in order to find out whether they get along OK or not. In other words, they want to test their partners to see if they are good husband/wife material and somebody capable to form a family with.

Studies say, however, the cohabiting before marriage increases the risk of divorce, this is the so called 'cohabiting effect'. People who cohabit are less selective with choosing their partners and may later marry a person that isn't really right for them. There is a lower level of commitment in a cohabiting relationship that continues well into marriage and eventually can lead to divorce.