Social aspects of relationship security: redefining family and functional environments

Abstract

Family is one of the important socialising institutions of the society that has survived through the ages. There appears to be a change in the family, couple dyad and dynamics in rapidly modernizing India with increased educational, employment opportunities for women, migration for work and studies, and the entry of the nuclear family system.  Two separate studies were done among 29 participants, between the ages of 18 and 45 to understand and conceptualize relationship security. A qualitative approach from a phenomenological paradigm was used to obtain rich experiences, understand it in depth, and maintain the uniqueness of the data. The present paper explores the expectations from partner towards the family, peer group and their influence on sense of security in the intimate relationship. Sub-themes emphasising on inclusion in peer group, transparency in work place, parents as a support rather than a directing system emerged from the data. This information could help in strengthening functional environments of couples in a relationship as well as raise awareness about the transitioning family in Westernizing India.