Arranged marriage

Definition

An arranged marriage is a marital union where the families of the couple, rather than the individuals themselves, play a significant role in selecting the partners. This practice often reflects cultural norms and values that prioritize familial or social alliances over personal choice, impacting sexual attitudes and practices across different societies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Arranged marriages are prevalent in many cultures around the world, especially in South Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Africa, where family honor and social status play critical roles.
2. While traditionally viewed as lacking romantic love, many arranged marriages evolve into loving relationships as couples develop emotional bonds over time.
3. In some cultures, arranged marriages can also serve to strengthen alliances between families or clans, promoting social cohesion and economic stability.
4. Modern trends show that some arranged marriages now incorporate the preferences of the individuals involved, allowing for a blend of traditional and contemporary values.
5. Studies indicate that arranged marriages can have lower divorce rates compared to love marriages in certain contexts, attributed to cultural attitudes toward marriage commitment and family involvement.

Review Questions

• How do cultural values shape the practice of arranged marriages in different societies?
  • Cultural values significantly influence arranged marriages by dictating norms around family involvement, social alliances, and expectations for gender roles. In many societies, families prioritize union stability and compatibility over individual desires. This practice reflects a communal approach to relationships rather than an individualistic one, emphasizing familial honor and societal expectations in choosing partners.
• Discuss the impact of arranged marriages on sexual attitudes within cultures that practice them.
  • Arranged marriages can lead to distinct sexual attitudes shaped by cultural beliefs regarding modesty, fidelity, and gender roles. In societies with arranged marriages, sexual intimacy may be viewed as an important aspect of marriage but often occurs within strict cultural guidelines. This can result in conservative views on premarital sexual relations while emphasizing loyalty and commitment within the marital relationship.
• Evaluate how modern influences are reshaping the concept of arranged marriages in contemporary societies.
  • Modern influences such as globalization, increased education levels, and changing gender roles are transforming the concept of arranged marriages. Individuals are increasingly seeking a balance between traditional practices and personal choice, leading to a hybrid model where families still play a role but individuals express preferences and desires. This shift can enhance compatibility between partners while preserving cultural heritage, reflecting evolving societal norms regarding love and partnership.

Related terms

Dowry: A transfer of parental property, wealth, or gifts given to the groom and his family as part of the marriage arrangement.

Consanguinity: The property of being from the same kinship as another person, which can influence marriage practices and choices in certain cultures.

Endogamy: The custom of marrying within a specific social group, class, or ethnic group, which is often observed in arranged marriages.