Unforeseen
changes in the marriage system
వివాహ వ్యవస్థలో అనూహ్య
మార్పులు
The
institution of marriage, a cornerstone of human society for centuries, is
undergoing profound changes. Across the globe, including in India, marriage
rates are declining, divorce rates are rising, and alternative forms of
partnerships are gaining acceptance. This article delves into the causes, pros
and cons, and potential remedies for the evolving dynamics of the marriage
system, supported by statistics and expert opinions.
Causes of the Decline in Marriage
1.
Changing
Societal Norms:
o Traditional
expectations surrounding marriage are being challenged. Younger generations
prioritize individual freedom, career growth, and personal fulfillment over
societal expectations.
o In India, the average
age at marriage has risen significantly. According to the National Family Health
Survey (NFHS-5, 2019-21), the median age at first marriage for women increased
to 21.2 years, compared to 18.3 years in the 1990s.
2.
Economic
Factors:
o Economic instability,
unemployment, and rising costs of living deter people from committing to marriage.
A 2021 Pew Research Center report highlights how economic pressures are a major
factor in the declining marriage rates in developed nations.
o In India, dowry
demands and extravagant wedding expenses further dissuade families from
considering marriage as a priority.
3.
Rise
of Individualism:
o A shift from
collectivist to individualistic values is evident worldwide. This transition is
particularly prominent in urban areas where nuclear families and personal goals
take precedence over traditional family obligations.
4.
Legal
and Social Acceptance of Alternatives:
o Live-in
relationships, single parenthood, and same-sex unions are increasingly
recognized. The Supreme Court of India, in multiple rulings, has upheld the
legality of live-in relationships, reflecting changing societal attitudes.
o Globally, countries
like Sweden and Norway report some of the highest rates of cohabitation over
traditional marriages, with nearly 50% of children born out of wedlock.
5.
Technology
and Dating Apps:
o Digital platforms
have transformed how people meet and connect. While this has expanded
opportunities for relationships, it has also led to a casual approach to
commitment.
Pros of the Changing Marriage
System
1.
Greater
Autonomy:
o Individuals now have
more freedom to choose their partners or opt out of marriage entirely without
societal pressure. This has empowered women, in particular, to focus on
education and careers.
2.
Reduced
Stigma Around Divorce:
o The acceptance of
divorce as a viable option has allowed people to exit toxic relationships. In
India, divorce rates remain low (approximately 1%), but awareness and legal
support for divorcees are increasing.
3.
Recognition
of Diverse Relationships:
o The evolving marriage
system has paved the way for acceptance of LGBTQ+ relationships. India’s
decriminalization of Section 377 in 2018 was a landmark step in this direction.
4.
Economic
Independence:
o With fewer financial
dependencies in relationships, individuals can make decisions based on
compatibility rather than necessity.
Cons of the Changing Marriage
System
1.
Loneliness
and Mental Health Issues:
o The rise of
singlehood and delayed marriages can lead to feelings of isolation. A 2022
study by the World Health Organization (WHO) found that unmarried individuals
are more likely to report mental health challenges.
2.
Declining
Fertility Rates:
o Fewer marriages
contribute to declining birth rates. India’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) fell to
2.0 in 2021, below the replacement level of 2.1. Countries like Japan and Italy
face severe demographic crises due to similar trends.
3.
Impact
on Children:
o Children from
non-traditional family setups may face societal bias or lack stable
environments, though studies show that supportive parenting matters more than
marital status.
4.
Erosion
of Cultural Values:
o In India, marriage is
deeply intertwined with religious and cultural practices. The decline in
traditional marriages may lead to a loss of cultural heritage.
Remedies to Address the
Challenges
1.
Promoting
Awareness and Education:
o Comprehensive
education about relationships, financial planning, and conflict resolution can
help individuals make informed decisions.
o Premarital counseling
and family workshops can bridge generational gaps and address misconceptions
about marriage.
2.
Reducing
Financial Burdens:
o Simplifying marriage
ceremonies and discouraging dowry practices can make marriage more accessible.
The "Kanyashree Prakalpa" scheme in West Bengal, which provides
financial aid for girls’ education and marriage, is a commendable initiative.
3.
Encouraging
Work-Life Balance:
o Policies promoting
work-life balance, such as flexible working hours and parental leave, can help
couples manage careers and family life effectively.
4.
Legal
and Social Support:
o Strengthening laws
against domestic violence and ensuring swift justice in family disputes can
restore faith in the institution of marriage.
o Providing support
systems for single parents and divorced individuals can mitigate societal
stigma.
5.
Leveraging
Technology Positively:
o Dating apps and
matrimonial websites can be used to promote serious commitments rather than
casual connections. Platforms like Shaadi.com and Jeevansathi.com have
introduced features to verify user intentions, ensuring greater trust.
Global and Indian Statistics
·
Marriage
Rates:
o The United States
reported a marriage rate of 6.1 per 1,000 people in 2020, down from 8.2 in 2000
(CDC).
o In India, urban
marriage rates have declined, with many millennials choosing to delay or avoid
marriage altogether.
·
Divorce
Rates:
o Globally, divorce
rates have doubled over the past 50 years. In India, while the rate is low,
urban areas report a significant rise in separations.
·
Cohabitation:
o Nearly 60% of couples
in Scandinavian countries cohabit before marriage, compared to less than 5% in
India.
Conclusion
The
marriage system is not necessarily withering away but is undergoing a
transformation reflective of broader societal changes. While this evolution
brings greater freedom and diversity, it also poses challenges that require
collective attention. By fostering open dialogue, promoting education, and
adapting cultural practices to modern realities, societies can ensure that the
institution of marriage remains relevant and resilient in the 21st century.
