Factors Associated With Cohabitation among University Students in Nairobi, Kenya

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Date
2011
Authors
Muriithi, Joan Kabaria
Ngige, Lucy W
Mugenda, Olive M
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Universidad Nacional Aut{\'o}noma de M{\'e}xico, Instituto de Investigaciones Sociales
Abstract
Cohabitation is emerging as an important factor in mate-selection in many societies in Kenya. This study focused on cohabitation among university students in Nairobi. The objectives included: determining the prevalence of cohabitation and establishing the relationship between students’ attributes, family background and social factors and cohabitation. Methodology was guided by Brofenbrenner’s ecological model of human development. A survey of 176 students from one public university in Kenya was conducted. Results showed that the prevalence of cohabitation was 27.4%. The significant factors that influenced cohabitation included fathers’ occupation (p = 0.016), mothers’ occupation (p = 0.029), parents’ residence (p = 0.000), family income (p = 0.000) and peer influence (p = 0.000). However, the factors of students’ age and sex were not significantly related to cohabitation. Implications for family life education, reproductive health and strengthening of students’ guidance and counseling services were included.
Description
Article
Keywords
cohabitation, premarital relationships, mate-selection, dating, courtship, come-we-stay marriages
Citation
Muriithi, J., Ngige, L., & Mugenda, O. (2011). Factors associated with cohabitation among university students in Nairobi, Kenya. Revista de Investigacion Social, 6(9), 109-136.