Globalization has influenced various aspects of human life, including business, culture, and lifestyle, shaping marriage patterns across different cultures and societies. As a fast-paced exchange of ideas, cultural awareness, and economic transition, globalization has not only diversified marriage patterns but birthed cross-cultural marriages as well.
The expectations of society and family culture have subsequently adjusted to the trends of modernity, leading to dynamic changes in relationships. Overall, the effect illustrates how globalization impacts family life, cultural exchange, and modern relationships.
Future Impacts of Cultural Exchange on Marriage Patterns
As globalization pursues further progression and unification, the impact on the future form of marriage patterns will be significant, influenced by increased cultural exchange and societal changes. Globalization has influenced cross-cultural marriages by increasing exposure to different cultures due to increased migration, fast travel, and digital connectivity.
International marriages, which were a rarity in the past, are a norm today due to globalization, organizing unions for people in different countries. The concept of cross-cultural marriages allows blending the practices from the two cultures, which refers to advantages and disadvantages at the same time.
The Rise of Cross-Cultural Marriages in the United States
The Migration Policy Institute in 2018 prepared the case study, according to which 12% of all marriages in the United States contain at least one foreign-born spouse. Thus, it also stated that cross-cultural marriages create tensions between two cultures due to various factors such as language, expectations from society and family culture, and traditional values.
Positive Impacts of Blending Cultural Norms
Nevertheless, cross-cultural marriage creates agitation for new cultural norms, and 60% of couples affirmed that blending two cultures had positive impacts.
The percentage of cross-cultural marriages will increase by 2035 by 15% due to increased migration flows and widespread globalization. This means that the role of blending cultural norms in the new family culture will be critical.
Globalization’s Effect on Traditional Marriage Practices
Globalization has had a profound impact on societal expectations regarding marriage and married life, shaping a shift in traditional marriage practices. In many societies, globalization exposed traditional marriage practices, such as arranged marriages, traditional gender roles, or certain family customs, to other ways of doing things.
Due to exposure to alternative marriage practices in other cultures, a growing shift toward more flexible and less traditionally structured practices of marriage may be observed as a result of the influence of globalization.
Case Study: Shift in Marriage Patterns in Urban India
One of the case studies that can demonstrate how globalization has affected traditional marriage practices is a study conducted by India’s Center for Social Research in 2019. Throughout the study, it was found that 45% of young people from urban India were going against the tradition of arranged marriages, choosing their romantic partner as a spouse instead of their parents’ choice.
This shift was further supported by the western values of individualism that had also become increasingly popular among the new generations.
Economic Globalization and Changing Marriage Patterns
Moreover, economic globalization has significantly impacted and reshaped marriage patterns. With the growing integration of economies worldwide, the issues of financial stability, employment possibilities, and social mobility have been gradually transformed and currently determine people’s attitudes toward marriage.
Economic factors, including employees’ ability to keep their current jobs, wage levels, and the quality of education, have become vital and fundamental in the decision-making process of many couples.
Impact of Economic Factors on Marriage Age in Developing Countries
According to a World Bank case study, economic globalization particularly affected developing countries and facilitated an increase in the average age of marriage, predominantly among women. The research shows a strong correlation between women’s ability to be employed and get an education and the rise in the average age of marriage.
For example, in Bangladesh and Kenya, new job markets emerged with the development of economic globalization, and the average age of marriage among women increased from 18 to 23 over the past 20 years.
Predicted Increase in Marriage Age Due to Global Employment Opportunities
Meanwhile, after 2045, the average age of marriage is expected to increase globally due to the significant expansion of employment opportunities and education. Individuals will pursue their professional development and career growth rather than choosing marriage in their early twenties. As a result, they will marry later in life after achieving economic stability, which will facilitate the spread of the concept of lifelong partnership.
Cross-Cultural Marriages and Evolving Relationship Dynamics
The impact of globalization on marriage will be felt in relationship dynamics, with 30% of couples in cross-cultural marriages reporting a benefit to their relationship via cultural exchange and a shared global experience. This trend will continue to influence how couples interact, communicate, and create a strong partnership.
Future Perspectives on Globalization’s Influence on Marriage
These predictions highlight the major effects of globalization on every aspect of marriage across diverse cultures and societies. As the scope of cultural exchange, economic considerations, and social roles evolve, marriages in the future are likely to be characterized by diversity, resilience, and inclusivity. The ongoing changes in traditional marriage are part of the general impact of globalization on family life in the 21st century.
