According to the latest British Social Attitudes (BSA) Survey, which was conducted in 2008, almost two-thirds of Brits now see little difference between marriage and living together. Fewer than a fifth of people took issue with it.

Just under half thought cohabitation showed just as much commitment as getting married. When it comes to children, where opinion can often be a bit more traditional, only 28% said they believe married couples make better parents.

So why do it? Psychologist Donna Dawson, who specializes in sex and relationships, says it is often about making a public statement.  “Having the children take part is like a ceremonial creation of a family and a public statement that they are all in it together. It’s very much a 21st Century ritual, which more and more people will be doing.”

Read the BBC article here http://bbc.in/j7haPE