White People's Perceptions on Divorce

White People's Perceptions on Divorce

"White people's perceptions on divorce differ from those of Asian

origin."

From living in a multi- cultural community it has become apparent to

me through my experiences that divorce has become more socially

acceptable amongst white people then Asian people. I want to test and

explore possible reasons behind these evident changes in attitudes. I

would also like to investigate the impact factors like secularisation

and legislation have had on Asian perceptions of divorce. The stigma

that existed with divorce in the past, ceases to exist in today's'

society because divorce is an accepted norm. There is also a gap in

relevant sociological research into Asian perceptions on divorce.

(98 words)

Contexts/ Concepts

==================

Contexts

v Ronald Fletcher, " The family and marriage in Britain" (1966)

v Bryan Wilson, "Morality and the modern social system" (1966)

Concepts

--------

v Divorce

v Secularisation

v Empty shell marriages

In 1966, Ronald Fletcher, a functionalist concluded that rising

divorce rates were a result of society's increasing expectations

regarding marriage. He claimed that society was no longer willing to

tolerate "empty shell marriages," therefore resulting in people

resorting to divorce as a form of escape from martial unhappiness.

An empty shell marriage is a marriage in which the couple continue to

reside under the same roof, however there is no intimacy, love or

affection. The only reason the couple stay together is because of

extrinsic factors, like "for the sake of the children." Empty shell

marriages seem appa...

... middle of paper ...

...ent shows signs of

apprehension and discomfort as a result of the tape recorder. This

will mean that I will have to hand write the notes, and this may prove

to be arduous because the conversation may be formulating to quickly,

thus resulting in me missing vital points. The note taking may also

remind the respondent that their opinions are being recorded,

therefore inhibiting their level of "openness."

Moreover, the respondents may produce "socially desirable" answers to

cast themselves in a favourable "light." They may feel the need to

exaggerate the truth, for instance, they may say they do not protest

to divorces because they do not want to be perceived as having

"Victorian" values. Also, there are practical problems, such as

ensuring that the location and time of the interview is convenient for

the respondent.