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Understanding marriage motives and outcomes

By Esther Muhozi
On 27 October 2023 at 08:35

Marriage is a profound institution, one that has been deeply ingrained in our societies for centuries. It is often considered a milestone in one’s life, a step towards lifelong commitment, and a symbol of love and unity. However, the decision to get married is influenced by a multitude of factors, including world views, peer pressure, societal myths, age, and more.

This article delves into the intricate web of motivations behind marriage, highlighting the potential pitfalls of rushing into this sacred union and the far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and society as a whole.

The worldview effect

A person’s worldview plays a significant role in their decision to get married. Worldview encompasses one’s values, beliefs, and expectations, which can be heavily influenced by cultural, religious, and philosophical perspectives. Some individuals marry because their worldview dictates that marriage is the ultimate goal, and it aligns with their spiritual or cultural beliefs. While such motivations can lead to a fulfilling marriage, it can also lead to disappointment if the partnership doesn’t meet the idealized expectations.

Peer pressure and societal myths

Peer pressure and societal myths can be potent motivators for marriage. Pressure from family and friends, or the fear of being seen as ’left behind’ in the marriage race, can push individuals into matrimony. Additionally, romanticized notions of marriage perpetuated by society, such as the idea that it solves all problems or that it is the only path to happiness, can be misleading. When people succumb to these external influences, they may rush into a marriage without truly understanding their own desires and compatibility with their partner.

The age factor

Age often plays a crucial role in the decision to marry. Some people feel societal pressure to get married by a certain age, fearing that being single in their late twenties or thirties is undesirable. Rushing into a marriage due to age-related concerns can lead to emotional and psychological distress as people may not be fully prepared for the responsibilities that come with marriage.

Rushed marriages and negative impact

Marriages that are rushed into often suffer from a lack of preparation, self-awareness, and compatibility. Such unions can have several negative consequences and theses Include:

Strained relationships: Rushed marriages can lead to conflicts and misunderstandings, as the partners may not have had the time to truly get to know each other and their expectations.

Emotional and psychological stress: Individuals in rushed marriages may experience higher levels of stress, anxiety, and even depression, especially if they feel trapped in an unfulfilling relationship.

Divorce rates: Marriages entered into impulsively are more likely to end in divorce, further exacerbating the social and economic costs of divorce on individuals and society.

Impact on families: The consequences of a rushed marriage are not confined to the individuals involved. Families on both sides can be deeply affected, experiencing emotional turmoil and strained relationships as a result.

Societal and economic implications: High divorce rates and broken families can strain social services and impact the well-being of children, as they face the challenges of living in divided households. Additionally, the financial costs of divorce can be substantial for individuals and society.

Nation’s development : Rising divorce rates and a high number of rushed marriages can have a detrimental impact on a nation’s development. Broken families can lead to an increased demand for welfare services, strained healthcare systems, and reduced productivity. The emotional turmoil experienced by children of broken families can impact their educational attainment, perpetuating cycles of poverty and underdevelopment. Thus, the hasty decision to marry can have far-reaching implications for the nation’s overall well-being.

To sum up , marriage is a profound and beautiful institution when entered into with careful consideration, mutual understanding, and shared goals. Rushing into marriage due to external pressures or societal myths can have dire consequences, not just for the individuals involved but for families and society as a whole.

It is imperative to encourage open dialogue about the complexities of marriage and provide support and education to individuals contemplating this lifelong commitment. Ultimately, a well-considered, thoughtful approach to marriage is essential to ensure that it remains a source of love, stability, and growth for individuals, families, and society.

Marriage is considered one of the oldest human institutions. Photo iStock

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