Happiness as an unmet reality in Pakistan: discourses of divorced and separated individuals

Saira Batool and Rabia Ali

International Journal of Happiness and Development, 2025, vol. 9, issue 3, 314-330

Abstract: This research paper highlights the dilemmas associated with the social construction of marriage vs. the ideation of marriage as a modern symbol of unity in contemporary Pakistan. The paper draws on the narratives of 16 divorced and separated men/women. Marital happiness for women is attained in their willingness to act in subordinate roles due to the hegemonic masculinity of men. The study is based on personal experiences of individuals and defying the patterns of obedience had led to dissatisfaction in their marital relationships. The major problem had been the inability to accept the ground realities of marriage in its practical form in contrast to the perception of marriage as a romantic and happy relationship. When the realities did not meet the expectations; their relations came to an end leading to social stigma and emotional dilemmas. These findings suggest the need to rethink of marriage as a complex and evolving institution in contemporary Pakistan.

Keywords: happiness; divorce; separation; marriage; imagination; qualitative methods. (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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