Abstract

Is Marriage and Having a Family Compulsory in Society? Marriage and family have historically been viewed as essential institutions in many societies, shaping social structures, traditions, and even economies. However, as societies evolve, perspectives on marriage and family have changed. While some still regard them as fundamental aspects of life, others see them as personal choices rather than obligations. The question remains: Is marriage and having a family compulsory in a society? The answer is no, as Individuals today have the freedom to choose their paths based on personal aspirations, financial stability, and societal factors. However, despite this freedom, many young people still face immense pressure to marry, even when they are not yet emotionally or financially prepared. The Traditional View of Marriage and Family In many cultures, marriage has been considered a necessary milestone in life. Historically, it served as a means of ensuring financial security, strengthening social ties, and continuing family lineage. For example, in ancient China, marriage was arranged by families based on social status and economic advantage rather than personal choice. Similarly, in medieval Europe, noble families often arranged marriages to secure alliances and wealth. Even in modern times, some societies still pressure individuals to marry. In India, for example, arranged marriages are still common, with families playing a significant role in selecting a spouse. In some Middle Eastern countries, societal norms strongly encourage marriage, and in some cases, unmarried individuals—especially women—may face social stigma. These cultural perspectives emphasize the importance of marriage not just for personal companionship but as a duty to family and society. Having children is also seen as an obligation in some cultures. In Japan, the declining birth rate has become a concern, leading the government to introduce policies that encourage marriage and childbearing, such as financial incentives and extended parental leave. However, despite these efforts, many young Japanese people choose to remain single or delay marriage due to financial pressures and career aspirations. Pressures That Force Young People into Marriage Despite the increasing acceptance of personal choice in marriage, many young people still feel pressured to marry due to various societal, cultural, and familial factors. 1. Family Expectations and Cultural Norms In many societies, parents and extended family members expect young adults to marry by a certain age. For example, in the Philippines, it is common for relatives to ask young people, “Kailan ka magpapakasal?” (“When will you get married?”) during family gatherings. This social pressure can make individuals feel obligated to marry, even if they are not ready. 2. Religious Beliefs Many religious traditions emphasize marriage as a sacred duty. In some Christian, Muslim, and Hindu communities, staying single for too long may be viewed as undesirable or even sinful. Some religious teachings also discourage premarital relationships, making marriage seem like the only acceptable way to experience companionship and intimacy. 3. Fear of Social Judgment In some cultures, being single for too long is often associated with negative stereotypes. Women, in particular, may be labeled as “old maids” or “leftovers” if they remain unmarried past a certain age. In China, the term “Sheng Nu” (leftover women) is used to describe women over 27 who are still single, putting immense pressure on them to find a husband. Similarly, men who are not married by their 30s may be seen as irresponsible or immature. 4. Economic and Financial Pressures In some societies, marriage is seen as a way to achieve financial security. Young people from economically disadvantaged backgrounds may feel pressured to marry someone who can provide financial stability, even if they are not emotionally prepared for marriage. For example, in some rural parts of Africa and South Asia, early marriages are arranged to provide financial relief to the bride’s family. 5. Peer Pressure Seeing friends and classmates getting married can create a sense of urgency, making individuals feel as though they are “falling behind” in life. In social media-driven cultures, where people frequently post wedding and engagement photos, young adults may feel pressure to conform to the trend, even if they are not ready for marriage. 6. Unplanned Pregnancy In conservative societies, an unplanned pregnancy often leads to marriage due to social expectations and family pressure. In the Philippines, for example, “shotgun weddings” (forced marriages due to pregnancy) are still common, especially among young couples. While this may seem like a solution to social stigma, it often results in marriages that are unstable due to emotional immaturity and financial struggles. Changing Perspectives in Modern Society In contemporary society, marriage and family are increasingly viewed as personal choices rather than obligations. Many individuals prioritize career advancement, personal development, or other life goals. For instance, in Western countries like the United States and Canada, there has been a significant rise in the number of single people who choose to remain unmarried or cohabit without legally formalizing their relationships. Celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, who has remained unmarried despite a long-term relationship, exemplify this shift in societal norms. Additionally, financial stability plays a crucial role in decisions about marriage and children. In urban areas, the rising cost of living, housing, and childcare often discourages young couples from starting a family. For example, in South Korea, the term “Sampo Generation” (meaning “Three-Give-Up Generation”) describes young people who forgo marriage, children, and homeownership due to economic hardships. This phenomenon highlights how financial factors influence personal decisions in modern society. Alternatives to Traditional Family Structures As societies become more accepting of diverse lifestyles, alternative family structures have emerged. Single-parent families, same-sex couples raising children, and individuals choosing to remain child-free are increasingly recognized. For example, in Scandinavian countries like Sweden and Denmark, cohabitation without marriage is common, and legal protections are provided for unmarried couples. Another example is the concept of “chosen families,” where people form deep, supportive relationships outside of biological ties. In LGBTQ+ communities, for instance, individuals often build close family-like relationships with friends who provide emotional and financial support. This demonstrates that love, care, and support do not necessarily require legal marriage or biological parenthood. Conclusion Marriage and family remain significant in many cultures, but they are not compulsory in modern society. While traditional expectations still influence many people’s decisions, growing individual freedom allows people to shape their lives based on personal values, financial realities, and career aspirations. However, young people still experience immense pressure to marry due to family expectations, religious beliefs, social stigma, and economic factors. These pressures often lead individuals into marriage before they are truly ready, sometimes resulting in unhappy or unstable relationships. As society continues to evolve, the acceptance of diverse family structures further highlights that fulfillment and happiness are not dependent on marriage or having children. Instead, individuals should have the right to choose whether to marry or remain single without fear of judgment or pressure. Ultimately, personal happiness and well-being should be prioritized over societal expectations.