The influence of alcohol consumption among partners in newly cohabiting relationships

Research has linked exposure to the drinking of one’s partner or spouse and changes in alcohol-related behaviours. However, there is a dearth of studies which consider only cohabiting relationships. More couples are preferring to cohabit prior to and in place of marriage. As a result, studies focused on cohabiting couples may provide a more representative consideration of modern long-term relationships.The present study uses a representative, longitudinal sample with annual follow-up and aims to determine if cohabiting partner’s drinking habits are influenced by their partner’s consumption, as well as, consider the role of intimacy as a key component of these influences compared to a relationship’s label or legal status.