Teaching Children About Arranged Marriages
Arranged marriages have been a part of our society since the fourth century. Many consider this ritual as the central fabric of Indian culture and society. With reference to historical literature, there are six main functions that arranged marriages have served in the Indian culture:
- Arranged Marriage helps in maintaining social satisfaction,
- It gives parents control over family proceedings and matters,
- It preserves the ancestral lineage and helps in the consolidation and extension of family property
- It helps in strengthening the bonds amongst individuals
Talking To Children About Arranged Marriage
Parents usually talk to their children about all kinds of different topics; from “commercials” to “breaking news” to any other topic that they consider important. But it is rarely that we hear anything being discussed about the most important block of our society: Marriages.
With growing trend of Love Marriages, helping children understand the concept of Arranged Marriages is important to make them aware about our rich heritage, cultural practice and tradition. A few people find it hard to talk to their children about this important phase of life. However, parents have a responsibility to prepare their children for a lasting fulfillment in marriage. Here are a few important tips to help you guide your children about arranged marriages.
Tips for Parents: How To Initiate A Discussion On Arranged Marriages
Start By Talking About Culture: Before you refer to arranged marriage, you should start by defining culture and explaining its importance in our lives. When you talk about culture, you should make sure that you let your child relate to various examples from the society. Relating to things that he observes, is the best way to ensure that he understands your point of view.
- Encourage Him/her To Ask Questions: Depending on the age of your child, you might want to give him some informative books to read. Encourage the curiosity in him to discuss about the things he notices and give appropriate answers to his questions.
- Talk About Marriage: Once he has an understanding of culture, you should cite examples from the community to let your child understand how marriages work. You can point out the example of married couples that your child might be familiar with.
- Talk About Arranged Marriage: Once he has the understanding of why marriages are important; you should tell your children about the importance of arranged marriage in India and other parts of the world.
Keeping these points in consideration, when talking to your kids about marriage, will ensure that your kids learn to value and respect this Indian custom.
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