Parental interference and marital stability: a scoping review of sociocultural influences on Indian families

Singh, A. and Shanbhag, Trusha (2025) Parental interference and marital stability: a scoping review of sociocultural influences on Indian families. [Publications (Pre-joining)]

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Abstract

In India, marriage is seen as a union between two families, not just individuals. Parental interference significantly contributes to marital discord and rising divorce rates. This review examines the extent of parental interference, its impact on marital stability and divorce rates, and the underlying sociocultural factors. A comprehensive search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases for studies published between 2010 and 2023. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The review revealed a significant association between parental interference and marital instability, with an overall effect size (Hedges’ g) of 0.65. Excessive parental involvement often leads to resentment, loss of privacy, and conflicts between couples, exacerbated by the husband’s feelings of being overshadowed and the wife’s divided loyalty. Parental interference significantly contributes to rising divorce rates in India, reflecting a shift towards individualism among younger generations. Traditional family structures and cultural norms encourage high parental involvement, often continuing due to economic dependencies and respect for elders. This leads to increased stress, anxiety, and emotional estrangement among couples. Legal implications involve misuse of protective provisions, leading to prolonged legal battles and social stigmatisation. Parental interference is a critical factor in marital instability and rising divorce rates in India. Promoting marital autonomy, educating families on boundaries, and implementing legal reforms can be beneficial in fostering healthier marriages.

Item Type:	Publications (Pre-joining)
Authors:	Singh, A. and Shanbhag, Trusha
Document Language:	Language English (Full Issue)
Subjects:	Social sciences > Sociology & anthropology > Factors affecting social behavior > Human ecology > Human ecology-urban areas Social sciences > Sociology & anthropology > Groups of people > Ethnic and national groups Social sciences > Groups of people > Ethnic and national groups
Divisions:	Azim Premji University - Bengaluru > School of Arts and Sciences
Full Text Status:	Public
URI:	http://publications.azimpremjiuniversity.edu.in/id/eprint/6384
Publisher URL:	https://journals.lww.com/ijcm/fulltext/9900/parent...

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