I think this has something to do with the fact they aren't married. I got married when I was 22 years old. I'm 34 now and I never went thought the angst, etc. these folks are going through. I've been married for nearly 12 years (to the same man), have had the same job for nearly 9 years and when I was 30 years old, I was making more than $25k a year. I also bought a house 7 years ago.
I'm not rich but my life is comfortable and there's something to be said for having someone to share burdens and unfortunate events with.