Demanding Partners And Divorce As A “New Normal”: Accounts From South Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

The phenomenon of divorce is getting more attention of the scholars of social science in the context of Pakistan with the changing socio-cultural dynamics of the country. This study aims to investigate the interplay of demands from the marriage partners and divorce. Further, it investigates that how the perception of the society is changing about the phenomenon of divorce in South Punjab, Pakistan in the context of modernity and attaining social acceptance. For this purpose, qualitative approach of inquiry was employed. In-depth interview method was used for data collection. Data was analyzed through deductive thematic analysis and the findings of the study showed that body shaming, demand of companionship and availability, desire to access partner’s social media, commitment failures, and dowry were among the demanding behaviors. Further, personal acceptance, family support, and support from friendship networks were the drawn themes related to social acceptance of divorce.