CHANGES ON FIRST UNION DYNAMICS: HIGHLIGHTS OF A COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN ITALY AND SPAIN

This paper analyzes and compares first union formation dynamics in Spain and Italy within a socio-demographic context of major changes characterized by delays and the emergence of new behaviors on individuals’ the life courses. The research identifies the role played by first union formation on women’s biographies, determining also the transformations occurred among different birth cohorts. Another important aim is to demonstrate marriage delay in both countries, proving that younger females get married on a lesser extend and at older ages. Once examined the most salient features of first union transitions, the paper focuses on the measurement of the incidence and outcomes of first union’s that have been started as non-marital cohabitations.