The role of the family has long occupied a very important place in Japanese marriage culture. This is a feature rooted in the traditions, culture, and values of Japanese society, and is a unique aspect that distinguishes Japan from other countries. Today, however, the way families are involved is changing, and traditional values are being reevaluated. This article explores the importance and changing roles of marriage and family in Japan, exploring the differences between the past and present.
The Role of the Family in the Past
In the past, marriage in Japan was not only a matter between individuals, but also an important means of building relationships between families. Especially in the prewar and immediate postwar periods, the selection of marriage partners was generally initiated by the family, especially the parents. Such marriages were called “arranged marriages,” in which the values, financial situation, and family background of both families were important. Marriage through an arranged marriage was intended not only for the happiness of the individual, but also for the prosperity of the family as a whole and the improvement of social status.
In addition, parents and relatives were actively involved in the couple’s life after marriage, and cohabitation was accepted as a common form of marriage. Women, in particular, were expected to live with their husbands’ parents after marriage and take responsibility for housework and childcare. This type of family structure not only strengthened the bonds of the family as a whole, but also contributed greatly to the education of children and the stability of their livelihood.
Modern Family Involvement
In contemporary Japanese society, however, the nature of family involvement is changing dramatically. This change can be attributed to a variety of factors, including the spread of individualism, changing economic conditions, and even the advancement of women into the workforce. First, the number of cases in which parents take the initiative in selecting a marriage partner is decreasing, and arranged marriages, which were once the norm, have greatly declined. Instead, an increasing number of couples are marrying through free love, a trend that is being driven by the diversification of personal values and lifestyles. Today’s young people are choosing their marriage partners of their own volition and placing more emphasis on building a trusting relationship with their partners through romantic love.
On the other hand, family support still plays an important role in post-marital life. Especially in Japan, where the cost of purchasing a house and raising children is high, financial support from parents is often indispensable. In addition, with the increase in dual-earner households, substantial family support is becoming increasingly important, as grandparents take on the responsibility of caring for their grandchildren.
Background of Changing Family Roles
Changes in family roles are deeply influenced by social factors such as economic factors, women’s advancement in society, and the diversification of values. First, economic factors include the current Japanese economy, which lacks stability compared to the period of high economic growth. As a result, the younger generation is becoming increasingly concerned about life after marriage and the need for financial support from their parents. Second, as women become more career oriented, sharing housework and childcare is becoming an issue, and more and more entire families are sharing childcare responsibilities with the support of their parents. And today, as the traditional concept of “home” is fading, more emphasis is being placed on individual happiness and freedom. This change has also led to an increase in marriage styles that do not necessarily emphasize the wishes of the parents.
What will the role of the family be in the future?
Although the role of the family has changed over time, it is unlikely that its importance will ever completely disappear. Rather, modern family roles are flexible and seeking new forms. For example, it is becoming more common for married couples to lead independent lives while receiving support from parents and relatives when needed. Parents are also expected to provide the necessary support while respecting the values of the younger generation.
Furthermore, as society’s birthrate declines and the population ages, family support is becoming an increasingly important theme. The family’s role in marriage and child rearing is being reevaluated, and a new image of the family may be formed.
Conclusion
Marriage in Japan has long emphasized the importance of family relationships and harmony within the family as a whole. However, with the changing times, the role of the family is becoming more flexible. Today, while the will of the individual is respected, support from the family plays an important role in many cases. This unique Japanese way of relating to the family has a different appeal from other cultures, and will be an interesting topic for people from other countries. We hope that this knowledge of the Japanese marriage situation will help you to understand the depth and changes in Japanese culture.
