The Weight of Togetherness: Sociology of Marital Struggles Among Couples in Pakistan

Abstract

Marriage is essential for fulfilling emotional, social, and instinctual needs for love and belonging. Although often considered sacred, it can be built on fragile emotional foundations. This qualitative study explored the experiences of 13 married and remarried individuals through semi-structured interviews. The results reveal that many women face emotional distress caused by patriarchal control, lack of appreciation, and emotional neglect. Men often feel pressure when their masculinity is challenged or when they encounter incompatibility. Working couples struggle with mutual recognition and attention, while homemakers may feel a sense of emptiness from the repetitive nature of domestic routines. The study emphasizes the value of marital counseling, where couples can openly share feelings and address unspoken grievances. Such interventions can foster empathy, restore emotional balance, and ultimately lead to healthier, more fulfilling marriages.