THE INFLUENCE OF INTENTIONS AND LIFE-COURSE FACTORS ON UNION FORMATION BEHAVIOR OF YOUNG-ADULTS

This article examines the link between union formation intentions and behavior, using data from a representative sample of 394 young adults from the Netherlands. The extent to which life course factors shape th e process of union formation is investigated as well. Among young adul ts who have a steady dating relationship and who plan to live together within 2 years, more than 50% realize this intention, whereas among y oung adults who do not plan to live together within 2 years, less than 10% actually end up doing so. Life course factors influence union for mation indirectly, by shaping union formation intentions, and conditio nally, by influencing the extent to which young adults realize their i ntentions.