Ordinary Couples? Mate Selection in International Marriage in Nigeria

Abstract

This paper uses data collected from foreign women married to Nigerians to examine theoretical rationales that have been given for mate selection in intermarriages. Findings support the hypothesis that international marriages occur for a variety of reasons just as other marriages do. Data do not support arguments in the literature which explain mate selection in intermarriage by propinquity, hypergamy, rebellion or sex ratio. In addition, data suggest that shared statuses such as being students together may be more salient than either nationality or ethnicity during the period of mate selection. There is a danger that outsiders (including researchers), may overemphasize the dimension of nationality and overlook similarities. The international nature of the relationship may be of little or no concern to the couple at the time of mate selection. It may become extremely important, however, after mariage occurs.