The Pros and Cons of Arranged Marriages

Are you tired of swiping right and left on dating apps with no luck finding the one? Well, why not let your family take the reins and try an arranged marriage? As bizarre as it may sound, arranged marriages can be a lot of fun. They’re like a real-life version of The Bachelor  but with a happy ending (hopefully). It’s like a big party where everyone in your family tries to find the perfect match for you. Sure, this tradition has its scaries (I mean, saying “I do”  is the only thing you both agree on before actually knowing each other well)  but arranged marriages can also lead to some of the most amazing love stories.

In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of this age-old tradition and help you decide if it’s worth a shot. From the safety net of having a supportive partner chosen by loved ones to the potential loss of freedom in making your own choices, we’ll cover it all. So, grab a cup of tea, and let’s dive in!

Pros of Arranged Marriages

Arranged marriages have several benefits, such as a strong emphasis on family values and a deep understanding of each other’s backgrounds. Plus, the involvement of family members in the selection process can lead to a more stable and successful partnership.

Here are some potential advantages of an arranged marriage:

Family Got Your Back

One of the biggest advantages of arranged marriage is the involvement of the families. Turns out it doesn’t just take a village to raise a child, but also to find a potential partner. This can be particularly beneficial for those who don’t have the time or resources to navigate the dating world.

Having families involved in the process can foster stronger family bonds as they come together to support their loved one in finding the right partner. It creates a sense of community, knowing your family has your back and is there to help you through the process.

Tradition Meets Love

Arranged marriages can be a way to preserve cultural and religious customs, which can provide a sense of belonging. Families often better understand what qualities are essential in a partner, which can lead to more successful and satisfying marriages. For example, families may prioritize certain religious, cultural, or social values that align with their own, leading to a stronger connection between the couple and their families.

Overall, arranged marriages can be a perfect blend of tradition and love. It’s a way to preserve cultural and religious customs, create strong family bonds, and find a compatible partner all at the same time. It’s a win-win situation.

Till Death Do Us Part...Maybe

Did you know that over 20 million marriages worldwide are arranged? It’s a surprising fact, especially since we rarely hear about arranged marriages except when discussing their impressively low divorce rates. In contrast to the U.S. divorce rate, around 40-50%, the divorce rate for arranged marriages is a mere 4%. This shows that arranged marriages can be viable for those seeking a long-lasting and stable union.

Cons of Arranged Marriages

Arranged marriages can also have some drawbacks, such as a lack of personal agency in selecting a partner and the potential for compatibility issues. Also, the pressure to conform to societal or familial expectations can create stress and tension within the relationship.

Here are some downsides of an arranged marriage:

Forced Together Forever

One of the biggest downsides of arranged marriage is the lack of freedom and choice. You may feel pressured to accept a partner you don’t truly want, which can lead to unhappiness and dissatisfaction in the marriage. Incompatibility is a significant risk in arranged marriages, but you can make it work by remembering the four magic words: I’ll do the dishes.

Love Shackled

In arranged marriages, there’s a risk that one or both partners may feel love shackled as they may not have chosen the partner. Due to this, they may not have the same level of emotional investment in the relationship. This can lead to dissatisfaction and unhappiness in the marriage. Plus, both partners may lack trust and communication due to a weak foundation of mutual love.

Limited Exposure

Finally, arranged marriages can limit your exposure to potential partners. Swiping left and right on dating apps may not be fun, but it gives you a glimpse of what fish is in the sea. When you agree to an arranged marriage, you may not have the opportunity to meet and get to know a wide range of potential partners. As a result, you may end up marrying someone who is not a good match.

Conclusion

Arranged marriages can be an excellent way for families and cultures to come together and for two people to find true love. But there are downsides to consider. Arranged marriages can limit freedom and choice and may lead to unhappiness and dissatisfaction. At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that love is not like a one-size-fits-all  piece of clothing. What works for one may not work for another. And that’s okay. The most important thing is to find a partner who truly understands and supports you and who you can build a happy and fulfilling life with.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to have an arranged marriage should be made by you, taking your values and goals into consideration. And remember, whether you choose an arranged marriage or not, love knows no boundaries and will find its way to you.