The classic saying that all happy families are the same may not necessarily be true anymore. Nowadays, there are a variety of options for marriage unions in which people truly love each other. With all these options available, how do you choose the right format for your family relationships?
The traditional model of marriage that has been ingrained in our minds since childhood is the fairytale union of the prince and Cinderella, who marry and live happily ever after. However, even in the world of fairytales, there are examples of marriages that do not conform to this mold. For instance, the cartoon characters Aladdin and Princess Jasmine are married but do not have children and continue to live like siblings in the palace. The protagonist of the story Pocahontas changes partners frequently and does not get married at all, which could be considered an example of an open civil marriage.
In the past, the patriarchal model of marriage was the norm, even in fairy tales. However, people are now seeking to build relationships that suit their individual needs, which has given rise to a range of unique and unconventional marriage models such as relay marriages, trial marriages, and legal half-marriages. The concepts of “civilian,” “guest,” and “open” marriages are no longer surprising, and recent research indicates that divorce rates are actually decreasing in the US and the UK.
The classic definition of marriage as defined in the Civil Code stipulates that a couple is considered married if their union is registered, they live together, and publicly declare their marriage. However, psychologists from different countries have compiled lists of various marriage models, which showcase the wide variety of forms and shades of relationships. For example, with the increase in globalization and the ease of traveling, long-distance marriages have become a reality. Some couples live apart for long periods of time and only spend limited amounts of time together. Other couples live in interrupted marriages, where one partner only stays over occasionally for the purpose of rest and relaxation.
Sologamy is another modern marriage model that has emerged. In this type of marriage, a person marries themselves and becomes their own lover, best friend, parent, and child, and works to harmonize their own relationships with others. Although no country officially recognizes sologamy, there are many people who are content with their lives and have embraced the concept of marrying themselves.
By having a clear idea of what one desires and enough funds to make it happen, one can afford any marriage preference, even ones that put a partner in a subordinate position. One such example is the “Woman on Top” marriage form, which involves the dominance of a woman in a monogamous heterosexual marriage. In contrast to the traditional patriarchal family, the woman’s role in this union is to earn money, cultivate relationships, and make important decisions for the family, including those involving children, major purchases, and trips, while the man’s role is to obey. Despite the fact that in parliamentary systems, according to the University of Stockholm, women make up no more than 20%, female dominance is becoming fashionable.
At a party, I attempted to engage in conversation with a guest who instead turned away and pretended to look at the dish of olives. After asking a friend about this odd behavior, I was surprised to learn that the guest’s wife forbids him from speaking with other women. This moment made me consider where the boundaries of decency lie in new forms of marriage.
To have a successful modern marriage, it is important to discuss and agree on potential problems and nuances that may arise, according to psychologists. For example, a marriage contract can be a useful tool for couples to establish joint overcoming of difficulties. The ability to find compromise and communicate effectively is essential for family happiness. The financial issue is a critical aspect of marriage, but it is more important to learn how to talk about difficult topics and find solutions together. The conflict arises when the new rules are unacceptable for one partner and the other is unable to compromise. Couples should establish their own approach to family finances that works for them. Some marriages may choose to have separate accounts and surnames while others may opt for a joint approach.
According to a survey by AOL, 72% of wives have thought about divorce, and 57% have had occasional regrets about getting married. However, 71% of married women are still committed to being with their spouse for the rest of their lives despite the problems they may encounter.
Asexual marriages, also known as virgogam, are becoming more prevalent. Although both partners may be content with not having sex, many face hidden fears, indifference, dependence, or other underlying issues that can lead to problems within the relationship.
In the end, love remains the main component of successful marriage, as emphasized by Adri, who believes that a man must feel a deep connection with his partner before proposing.
