Shifting Attitudes Toward Marriage: A Psychological Perspective

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Marriage and childbearing have long been tied to economic and social conditions such as income, education, and employment. For instance, individuals with greater financial independence often delay marriage or reconsider its value. Living with parents also shapes perspectives. While some see it as a sign of dependence, others view it as a reflection of cultural values and family ties. These factors show that decisions around marriage are rarely just personal; they are deeply rooted in broader socioeconomic contexts.

Women, Marriage, and Autonomy
Research consistently highlights that women often report more dissatisfaction with traditional marriage than men. A major reason lies in the unequal distribution of household and parenting responsibilities. Many women perceive marriage as limiting autonomy, reducing personal freedom, and reinforcing gendered marriage may feel less like an opportunity and more like a burden. As a result, alternative family structures and cohabitation are becoming in increasingly common.

Example: A study by Twenge et al. (2003) found that women experienced a sharper decline in marital ...
... satisfaction after becoming parents compared to men, illustrating how entrenched gender roles can affect psychological well-being.

Men, Masculinity, and the Single Life
While women often question the fairness of marriage, many men struggle with life outside of it. Cultural narratives equate masculinity with being a provider, married or in a relationship. Men who remain single often face stereotypes of being irresponsible or “incomplete”. In addition, social norms discourage men from seeking emotional support outside romantic partnerships, making them more dependent on spouses for intimacy and connection.

Example: Studies reveal that men in relationships tend to be healthier and emotionally better supported, whereas single men may report loneliness and a lack of direction. This heavy reliance on romantic partners can make breakups particularly difficult for men to cope with.

The Broader Decline of Marriage:

Globally, marriage rates are falling, with delays, higher divorce rates, and voluntary singlehood on the rise. However, in many Asian societies, marriage continues to carry cultural weight. It is still viewed as both a milestone of adulthood and a way to ensure economic and social security. This tension between tradition and modernity highlights the psychological complexity behind marriage decisions-individuals must navigate personal desires while meeting cultural expectations.

Psychological Takeaway: Beyond the Institution
The changing meaning of marriage is not simply about numbers or trends; it reflects deeper questions about identity, fulfillment, and societal pressures. For women, marriage can sometimes symbolise lost autonomy. For men, singlehood can highlight unmet emotional needs. These contrasting experiences emphasize the psychological importance of building balanced relationships and strong support networks, whether or not marriage is a part of the picture.

Finding Support in Times of Transition:
At ImPerfect Psychotherapy, we recognise that questions around marriage, singlehood, and family are tied to mental and emotional well-being. Whether you are struggling with loneliness, navigating societal expectations or redefining what fulfillment means for you, therapy can help you find clarity and healthier ways to cope.

If marriage is no longer the only path to connection and stability, how might we reimagine relationships and community to better support our psychological needs?

By Krupa Abraham and Urveez Kakalia.

Reference:

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/227874853_Do_Men_Need_A_Spouse_More_Than_Women_Perceptions_of_The_Importance_of_Marriage_for_Men_and_Women
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/closer-encounters/202501/men-need-romantic-relationships-more-than-women
https://www.drjamesdobson.org/blogs/do-women-need-men-more-or-vice-versa/
Further Readings:

Kaufman, G., & Goldscheider, F. (2007). Do men “need” a spouse more than women?: Perceptions of the importance of marriage for men and women. The Sociological Quarterly, 48(1), 29-46.

Dutton, D. G., & Strachan, C. E. (1987). Motivational needs for power and spouse-specific assertiveness in assaultive and nonassaultive men. Violence and victims, 2(3), 145.
Allen, S. M., Goldscheider, F., & Ciambrone, D. A. (1999). Gender roles, marital intimacy, and nomination of spouse as primary caregiver. The gerontologist, 39(2), 150-158.