Chapter 5 Summary and Analysis

Unmarried couples living together statistically do not stay together once married. Dr. Laura asks if this is the kiss of death for a relationship. She says that it is out of desperation that women cohabitate, when they probably should not. She goes on to say that this is more often the case, when the women are younger. This is because they have not experienced enough of life yet or established their independence. Living with a man at such a young age only prolongs the maturing process that would normally take place from life experiences, or experiences gained on their own.

Women also hope that the fantasy will win out, when they move in with their boyfriends. They mistakenly believe that things will magically happen or magically heal once they live together. They are often disappointed as this fails to work in...