Divorce: A generational problem
In today’s world where social norms, customs and traditions have taken a back seat in the name of modernisation, the most effected is marriage (“Facebook: Should marriage counselling be made compulsory for everyone?”, Gulf News, November 15). In olden times, a marriage was a vow taken and was there for keeps, which has taken a shape of a mood. It’s no longer a taboo to think out of marriage ties. The freedom in today’s generation is defined as breaking ties with their partner when the marriage is no longer benefiting one person. It’s surprising that if this is what being more educated and being cultured is, then what would it be like for the next generation? It is time to ponder. As to what are we running after - values, serenity and freedom of thought? It’s due to these reasons that today it’s a must for the world, to go in for a counselling session to understand the sheer essence of marriage. There should be a certificate issued for each one to produce at the time of marriage to know the eligibility of the person as to whether both people are mentally and emotionally sound to get married.
From Ms Sudha Kathuria
Dubai
Compulsory advising needed
Nowadays, several married couples are choosing divorce whenever there is some difference of opinion in their married life. When we go through the details and reasons, most of the reasons are silly and occur due to miscommunication or the lack of communication between both people. If they could discuss the matter in detail and exchange their views, most of the disputes could be settled. In case they could not reach an amicable settlement, they can choose a mediator or a counsellor to help them. But the question is, who will take the initiative for this counselling? In such cases, compulsory counselling would be useful. If each couple has gone through a compulsory counselling session before marriage, there will be a record of their behaviour with the counsellor. This would be very useful to them and the couple will be more comfortable to discuss the matter with them because of their earlier consultation. Usually, couples may have some hesitation to approach a counsellor to consult family matters and their married life. Such hesitation will be less in case there is an early or compulsory counselling session available to them. However, they need the courage to accept their mistakes and forgive, be open minded and tell the truth.
From Mr Majeed K
Abu Dhabi
Clash with in-laws
It should be compulsory because the new generation has no values and absolutely no respect for marriage. Divorce is so common these days among newly married couples only because their mental frequency does not match with their parents-in-law, when it comes to personal affairs.
From Mr Dhareef Mohammad Ali
UAE
Teach better behaviour
Absolutely! Couples need to be oriented, counselled and be advice about what they are facing and what to expect and be taught a sense of responsibility towards each other and how to work things out in case of a disagreement or misunderstanding.
From Mr Jonjon Zenitram
Philippines
Willingness of couple
Maybe it should be optional. This is because there are people who undergo marriage counselling and still end up in failed marriages, separation and a broken family. The strength of the marriage depends on the couple and their willingness to make the marriage work.
From Ms Romina Gamboa Lingad
UAE
Make it accessible
I believe that marriage is the foundation for the success of a family, but also for a nation. So the necessity of counselling services is unquestionable. However it shouldn’t be for all, as there are families who can be taken as a role model, unless to share their success history. Instead of making it compulsory, it is advisable to make it accessible for all.
From Mr Dehab Ebrahim
UAE
Growth and trust needed
Yes, manageable, healthy marriages take respectful communication. With proper intellectual and spiritual guidance most couples might benefit greatly from understanding the level of commitment that a marriage entails. Trusted accountability for both parties during the growing stages of their union are keys to a solid marriage.
From Ms Bebichou B. Henry
UAE
Counselling for healthy relationships
Yes 100 per cent! Every marriage has problems. If they don’t, then both partners are in denial. To avoid all those feelings boiling up inside, only to have them exploding one day, I believe marriage counselling should be a compulsory habit for a healthy relationship.
From Ms Sarim Mahtab
UAE
Orientation between people
Yes, every couple needs an orientation before marriage. Marriage is the only institution where we enter without any orientation. Every couple needs to be counselled properly about ups and downs of marriage, and how to maintain a happy relationship.
From Mr Shamsun Naher Khuku
Oman
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