Recent Trends and Patterns of Marital Dissolutions in Gujarat: A Sociological Study
Author: Dhavalkumar Makwana, makwana.dhaval25@gmail.com
Department: Sociology
University: Bhakta Kavi Narsinh Mehta University, Junagadh, India
Supervisor: Dr. Rushiraaj Upadhyay
Year of completion: In progress
Language of dissertation: English
Keywords:
trends
, patterns
, marital dissolution
Areas of Research:
Family Research
, Population
, Social Transformations
Abstract
India is a developing country and its Gujarat state is developed. In the public domain, it is accepted that Gujarat is one of the fastest emerging states in economy, industry, politics, and education. The measurement of development is only assessed by its economic, political, infrastructural, and personal relational growth and modernity. However, the adverse effects of this development are clearly visible in marital relations and the rate, trends, and patterns of marital dissolution are emerging as alarming warnings for the entire social system. Statistically, India has the lowest divorce rate globally. However, marital dissolution is one of the salient social problems of society. According to the 2001 Census of India, Gujarat ranks sixth in divorce rates. The main thrust of this study is to sociologically examine recent trends and patterns of marital dissolutions in Gujarat by focusing on socio-cultural, legal, economic, physical, technological, and psychological factors that are responsible for diverse trends and patterns. Globalization and cultural contacts often lead to new trends and patterns of divorce along with the awareness of social and legal rights. In addition to this, conservative thoughts of spouses, suspicion, adultery, individualism, and professional and materialistic ambitions are also causes. Economic independence, increased level of education, and corporate culture have played a crucial role. To study increased marital dissolution rates, patterns of mixed methods will be employed. To get a wider perspective 5 different regions of Gujarat will be chosen for the study. Divorce does not occur all of a sudden, but it is a result of a series of events. Each society provides certain ways to terminate unfortunate marital bonds in order to establish equilibrium and harmony in the family. Though India is traditionally known for its low divorce rates, recently there has been a considerable rise in these rates, as reflected in the census reports of India.
