From Family Authority to Individual Choice: Education, Individual Autonomy, and Modern Values in Marital Decision-Making among Generation Z

Abstract

In traditional societies, the relationship of marriage was characterized by firm family control and cultural beliefs. However, social developments have had a growing impact on the way younger generations make a choice when it comes to marital. This paper examines how Generation Z is changing how they make marital decisions, especially the contribution made by education, personal freedom, and contemporary cultural norms. A qualitative research design that is based on the interpretivist approach was used to collect data based on semi-structured interviews with a sample population of 11 respondents (6 males and 5 females) selected through purposive sampling.  Data was analyzed through thematic analysis, which showed that there are four key themes. The results show that Generation Z prefers to be personally engaged in the decision to marry but at the same time respect the family opinion. In general, decision-making in marriage is moving towards a hybrid system that consists of personal preference coupled with still having family influence.