Marriage is a social act that greatly affects society. It brings in new status to the individual along with new social roles and interpersonal relations in the family – a basic social unit. It also constitutes of various marriage rituals and customs, which have special symbolic significance. Thus, social readiness with respect to marriage refers to:
At least a general understanding of what marriage means in the cultural context – its concept, functions, duties, privileges and obligations. Besides this, readiness to undergo the ceremonies and rituals of marriage with sufficient understanding of their symbolic meaning.
Having established a healthy measure of trust, autonomy, initiative, accomplishment and identity before they are ready for intimacy since it is the level at which a person requires the ability to give and receive love needed to begin making long-term commitments to relationships that get formed through marriage.
Being able to over look the shortcomings of others and focus on our own and to think not only of our self, but be concerned about the welfare of another.
Having capacity for kindness, compassion and companionship for others and the ability to collaborate, cooperate and consult with others to solve problems.
Possessing civic virtues and being equipped in performing some socially redeemable service to society in which one lives as well as humanity as a whole that can also contribute to the well-being of the marriage and family.
Participants