Marriage © PDST Home economics

Definition Marriage has many definitions. In Ireland marriage can be defined as “legally binding union between a man and a “a legally binding union between a man and a women with the exclusion of all others” In some countries, same sex marriages are accepted, however this is prohibited by Irish Law

Cultural Variations of Marriage 1. Minimum Age In Ireland it is 18 years (16 with parental consent). 2. Arranged Marriages Parents decide on child’s spouse based on suitability and background. Popular in cultures such as India. Marriage is arranged from young age.

3. Choice of Partners Restriction on the choice is based on religion, class or blood relationship. In Ireland there are restrictions based on blood relationships and relationships by marriage. Cultural Variations of Marriage

4. Number of Partners a. Monogamy One person has one spouse. Most common type of marriage in Western Society. Only type recognised by Irish Law. b. Serial Monogamy One person marries and divorces several times. c. Bigamy Person enters into a second marriage while still legally married to another person. Cultural Variations of Marriage

4. Number of Partners d. Polygamy Involves more than one partner. Not acceptable in Western Societies. Two forms of Polygamy 1.Polyandry 2.Polygyny Cultural Variations of Marriage

Polygyny Marriage involves ONE MAN and two or more women. Polygynous marital relations are commonly practiced in African nations and Islamic community. Dominant figure is the MAN, who controls all financial aspects and decision making This is known as Patriarchal (man dominates).

Polyandry Marriage involves ONE WOMAN and more than one man. Popular in certain Tibetan Tribes and among the Inuit Eskimos. Occurs in very poor cultures where a number of working males are considered necessary to support one wife and children. Obeys husbands’ wishes. One child from each husband.

Cultural Variations of Marriage 5. Wedding Ceremonies and Customs Jewish weddings are held under a canopy which is symbolic of the couple’s future home. At the end of the ceremony a glass is broken under the groom’s foot to symbolise the destruction of the ancient Jewish temple in Jerusalem and to remind the couple that a marriage can also break.

5. Wedding Ceremonies and Customs Many of the wedding customs with which we are familiar with have been popular for centuries. Roman brides wore veils 2,000 years ago & exchanged rings, symbolising eternity & the unity of husband & wife forever. The wearing of the ring on the third finger of the left hand is an ancient tradition. People believed that a nerve ran directly from that finger to the heart. Cultural Variations of Marriage

Match the Following Terms BigamyOne Man marries many women PolyandryOne Man one women PolygynyOne Women many men MonogamyMarry again while still legally married to another

Rights and Responsibilities of Married Couples in Ireland Each spouse is entitled to live together. Each spouse is expected to remain faithful to the other. The Maintenance of Spouse and Children’s Act 1976 states that each spouse Financially support one another. Legally any child born must be looked after physically, morally and socially. Joint Custody and responsibilities for care and upbringing shared.

Succession Act 1965: If there is no will after death of one spouse: The surviving spouse is entitled to the entire estate. If there are children the surviving spouse is entitled to two thirds of the estate. Rights and Responsibilities of Married Couples in Ireland

A wedding must take place in a recognised place of worship, in a registry office or in a venue which has been inspected and approved in advance by a Registrar in accordance with guidelines laid down by the Minister. Can apply for temporary registration. Two witnesses. Three months notice must be given to the registrar. Marriages must be registered after the ceremony. What Makes a Marriage Valid?

Marriage must be entered into voluntarily by both partners. Partners must be over 18. In Ireland, partners must be of opposite sex. Neither spouse may be in an existing marriage. Couples are restricted by blood relationships.