Exploring Gender Differences in Choice of Marriage Partner Among Individuals with Visual Impairment

Abstract

This paper explores choice of marriage partners among individuals with visual impairment in India. The importance of marriage and the desirability of characteristics and traits in the prospective marriage partners were investigated from 42 individuals with visual impairment in the age group of 18–35 years, in Mumbai, India. Non-probabilistic sampling was used to collect data using an online pre-coded questionnaire, where 35 characteristics of the prospective partner were rated on a 4-point scale, along with ranking 16 traits in order of preference. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for analysis of data. Marriage was considered important for the sample. Family’s opinions were considered vital in marital decisions, but individual choice was important. Women preferred older partners as compared to men. More women, than men, considered visual impairment of partners an irrelevant determinant for partner selection. Statistically significant gender differences were found in the valuation of characteristics and traits with women valuing good financial prospects, chastity, good behavior towards parents, desire for home and children, and being teetotal, more than men. Men desired a physically attractive partner whereas women valued financial stability. Women valued the traits of easy going, good housekeeper and good earning capacity while men preferred a physically able spouse. There is potential for research on gendered marriage choices, specifically among various marginalized populations. Interaction of cultural practices and marriage preferences of individuals with disability could be further explored.