Gender Differences in Marital Adjustment among Love and Arranged Marriage Couples: A Literature Review

Abstract

This literature review critically examines gender differences in marital adjustment across love and arranged marriages within the Indian socio-cultural framework. Synthesizing empirical findings from recent studies (2020–2024), the review elucidates the complex interplay between gender norms, marital arrangement, and socio-demographic variables in shaping marital outcomes. The evidence consistently indicates that women in arranged marriages report lower levels of marital satisfaction and adjustment, often attributed to limited autonomy, constrained pre-marital interaction, and entrenched patriarchal expectations. In contrast, love marriages, characterized by mutual selection and emotional familiarity, demonstrate more egalitarian dynamics, thereby mitigating gender disparities in adjustment. Nonetheless, traditional gender roles continue to influence relational experiences across both marriage types. Additionally, factors such as education, socioeconomic status, and urbanization emerge as critical moderators that can attenuate or exacerbate gendered experiences within marriage. The review underscores the need for intersectional and longitudinal research to further understand the evolving nature of marital relationships and inform culturally sensitive, gender-equitable interventions and policies.