What has contributed to the increase in cohabitation in modern UK society?

The increase in cohabitation in modern UK society has indeed been significantly influenced by effective contraception. Access to reliable and effective contraceptive methods has empowered couples to engage in premarital sexual relationships with less fear of unintended pregnancies. This has made cohabitation more appealing as a living arrangement before entering into marriage, allowing couples to test their compatibility and share their lives together without the immediate pressures of traditional relationships that often come with the expectation of marriage.

While there may be elements of acceptance of casual relationships in society and factors influencing attitudes towards marriage, these do not directly account for the practical implications of contraception. Furthermore, decreased travel opportunities and increased church attendance promoting traditional marriage are less relevant to the trend of cohabitation, as these factors would not naturally lead to an increase in living together prior to marriage. Thus, the growth in cohabitation can be closely tied to the socially transformative effect of effective contraception, contributing to changing norms and practices in relationships.