The importance of sexuality in the outcomes of a dating partnership among young adults

This paper examines new union dynamics in Italy, focusing on non-residential partnerships and studying the various transitions of a couple partnership among young adults. Data from a national survey conducted in 2006 provide a unique opportunity to examine the dynamics of relationship outcomes considering both an individual and a couple perspective and to verify the relevance of sexuality. In particular, an event history approach is used to study the disruption of an intimate couple relationship or its transition to cohabitation or marriage. Results of piecewise constant exponential models for competing risks show that, besides attitudinal factors (associated with socio-demographic background), also some aspects connected with sexuality may be important in affecting the decision whether to marry or cohabit or end a relationship. In particular, from an individual viewpoint, a traditional conception of sexuality increases the propension to marry, whereas individuals with a more “modern” view of sexuality are more prone to relationship instability. From a couple perspective, results show that a traditional intimacy within the couple is positively associated with the entry into marriage, and, even if less strongly, with the hazard of cohabitation.