Breakdown in Marriage A study of the social impact of the cases of marital maladjustment in the process of divorce (With special reference to Gwalior district)

Abstract

Marriage has always been regarded as the most important institution in our society. It is a chord that binds two people (husband & wife) and their families in such a way that though not bonded by blood or being strangers for ages they become closest of relatives. But after marriage there comes a new set of expectations, responsibilities and duties along with rights not only for the couples but also for the families involved & here the problem begins. If the couples and their families are able to cope up with the new emerging set of life, the marriage turns into bliss but if they fail, it leads to marital maladjustment which ultimately leads the couple to the court for divorce. The institution of divorce is still recognized as a social stigma in Indian society. It leads to a change in all the social relations, a man has been enjoying in his life. The family, friends, neigbours & relatives who generally form the social circle of an individual mostly choose to back out or avoid when it comes to providing support in one way or the other to the couple under divorce process. The couple also avoids being part of the social gatherings for the fear of being queried by the people. Therefore focusing on the majority of Hindus the present study has been undertaken by the scholar to explore deeply into the social impact of marital maladjustment. The aim of this study is to find out the social impact of breakdown in marriage in newly married couples, which leads them to divorce, and on the basis of these findings of the study, to forward creative suggestions for the ramification of the problem. Under this study for assessing the social impact of marital maladjustment in the process of divorce on the couples, the scholar has made use of indicators like change in social attitude, participation in parties/functions, social interaction, visits by people , social support etc.