In many cultures, marriage is traditionally an arrangement between families that is aimed at producing offspring and social stability.
It may also be based on romantic feelings, where couples meet each other and decide to get married themselves. In arranged marriages, there are often strict rules about what activities are acceptable within the relationship, such as physical contact or displaying affection in public. Love-based marriages, on the other hand, allow for more freedom and exploration of one's desires and needs. As a result, this can lead to different types of sexual attachments between partners.
In arranged marriages, emotional attachment may be more important than physical attraction, while in love-based marriages, both factors are equally considered.
Differences in cultural background and upbringing may also play a role in how individuals approach sex and intimacy. The following will explore these issues further, providing evidence from research studies and personal experiences.
The first thing to consider is the level of control over sexual activity in arranged marriages. In many cases, couples do not have any say in who they marry, which can lead to dissatisfaction in the bedroom. One study found that Indian women in arranged marriages reported lower levels of sexual satisfaction compared to those in love-based relationships (Jha et al., 2013). This could be due to a lack of compatibility or simply because the woman feels obligated to perform certain acts without pleasure. Another factor is the level of communication between partners, which can differ depending on cultural norms. Some cultures discourage open discussions of sexuality or preferences, leading to misunderstandings and frustration. In contrast, Westerners tend to be more open about their desires and expectations, resulting in greater understanding between partners.
This does not mean that all love-based marriages experience better sexual encounters - there are still difficulties related to compatibility, self-esteem, and other factors (Miller & Fogarty, 2015).
It seems that each type of marriage has its own unique set of challenges and rewards when it comes to sexual attachments.
How do sexual attachments vary in arranged versus love-based marriages?
Arranged marriages have different factors that influence the type of attachment formed between spouses compared to love-based marriages. In an arranged marriage, the decision to marry is often made by parents or other family members who consider various social, economic, and cultural factors when making their choice. This means that the attachment may be based more on practicality than romantic love.