Volume 04 Issue 09-2024
1
American Journal Of Social Sciences And Humanity Research
(ISSN
–
2771-2141)
VOLUME
04
ISSUE
09
P
AGES
:
1-7
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
ABSTRACT
The practice of dowry, a longstanding social tradition, continues to exert a profound impact on societies worldwide.
This paper, "Dowry: A Persistent Social Cancer," explores the multifaceted effects of dowry systems on social
structures and individual lives. It examines how dowries contribute to gender inequality, perpetuate economic
disparities, and perpetuate cycles of violence and discrimination. Through an analysis of historical context, current
practices, and case studies, the paper highlights the systemic nature of dowry-related issues and their implications for
societal health. By identifying the root causes and examining successful interventions, this study aims to provide a
comprehensive understanding of dowry as a pervasive social malignancy and offers recommendations for policy
reforms and community initiatives to address and mitigate its harmful effects.
KEYWORDS
Dowry, Social Cancer, Gender Inequality, Economic Disparities, Violence, Discrimination, Societal Impact, Policy
Reforms, Community Initiatives, Systemic Issues.
INTRODUCTION
The practice of dowry, where a bride’s family provides
gifts, money, or property to the groom's family, has
been embedded in many cultures for centuries.
Although it originated in various societies as a form of
ensuring the financial security of a bride, dowry
systems have evolved into a deeply ingrained practice
that often exacerbates gender inequality and socio-
economic disparities.
Research Article
DOWRY: A PERSISTENT SOCIAL CANCER
Submission Date:
Aug 22, 2024,
Accepted Date:
Aug 27, 2024,
Published Date:
Sep 01, 2024
Mrs. Sangeeta Nair
M.Phil, LLB Asst Professor of Sociology, Government First Grade College Shimoga, Karnataka, India
Journal
Website:
https://theusajournals.
com/index.php/ajsshr
Copyright:
Original
content from this work
may be used under the
terms of the creative
commons
attributes
4.0 licence.
Volume 04 Issue 09-2024
2
American Journal Of Social Sciences And Humanity Research
(ISSN
–
2771-2141)
VOLUME
04
ISSUE
09
P
AGES
:
1-7
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
In contemporary settings, dowry continues to be a
persistent issue, manifesting in various harmful ways
such as economic burdens on families, perpetuation of
violence against women, and the reinforcement of
patriarchal norms. Despite legal prohibitions and
reforms aimed at curbing this practice, dowry-related
problems persist, reflecting the resilience of traditional
attitudes and systemic issues within societal
structures.
This paper, "Dowry: A Persistent Social Cancer," delves
into the complex dynamics of dowry practices and
their repercussions. It seeks to uncover the underlying
social and economic forces that sustain dowry systems
and the impacts they have on individuals and
communities. By analyzing historical trends, current
practices, and case studies, this study aims to shed light
on the enduring nature of dowry as a societal ill and to
propose informed strategies for addressing and
alleviating its detrimental effects.
METHOD
To comprehensively address the issue of dowry as a
persistent social cancer, this study employs a multi-
faceted research approach combining qualitative and
quantitative methods. The methodology is designed to
capture both the systemic nature of dowry practices
and their individual impacts, offering a holistic view of
the issue. The research begins with an extensive
literature review to establish a theoretical framework
and historical context for understanding dowry
practices. This review includes scholarly articles, books,
and reports that discuss the evolution of dowry
systems, their socio-economic implications, and the
legal measures enacted to combat them. By
synthesizing existing research, the study aims to
identify gaps in the literature and highlight areas where
further investigation is needed.
A historical analysis is conducted to trace the origins
and development of dowry practices in various cultural
and regional contexts. This involves examining
historical texts, legal documents, and historical records
to understand how dowry practices have evolved and
how they differ across societies. The analysis also
focuses on the socio-economic and cultural factors
that have influenced the persistence of dowry
practices over time.
The study includes detailed case studies from different
regions where dowry practices are prevalent. These
case studies provide real-world examples of how
dowry affects individuals and communities. Data for
the case studies are collected through interviews with
individuals affected by dowry, including victims of
dowry-related violence, their families, and community
leaders. Additionally, secondary data from local NGOs,
government reports, and academic research are
analyzed to provide a comprehensive view of the
situation in each case. To gather quantitative data,
Volume 04 Issue 09-2024
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American Journal Of Social Sciences And Humanity Research
(ISSN
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2771-2141)
VOLUME
04
ISSUE
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P
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:
1-7
OCLC
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1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
surveys and questionnaires are administered to a
diverse sample of respondents.
These instruments are designed to capture
information on the prevalence of dowry practices, the
socio-economic impact on families, and attitudes
toward dowry within different communities. The
survey sample includes individuals from various socio-
economic backgrounds, genders, and age groups to
ensure a representative dataset. The data collected
from surveys are analyzed using statistical methods to
identify patterns and correlations related to dowry
practices and their effects.
In-depth interviews and focus groups are conducted
with key stakeholders, including policymakers,
activists, and representatives from organizations
working to combat dowry-related issues. These
interviews provide qualitative insights into the
challenges and successes of existing interventions and
policies. Focus groups with community members and
survivors of dowry-related violence offer additional
perspectives on the social and cultural dimensions of
the practice. Data from literature review, historical
analysis, case studies, surveys, and interviews are
systematically analyzed using both qualitative and
quantitative techniques. Qualitative data are analyzed
thematically to identify common themes and patterns,
while quantitative data are subjected to statistical
analysis to evaluate trends and relationships. The
integration of these findings helps to provide a
comprehensive understanding of the persistent nature
of dowry practices and their impact on society.
The mixed results of existing interventions underscore
the complexity of addressing dowry-related issues.
While legal measures and awareness programs have
made some progress, their impact remains limited due
to insufficient enforcement and societal resistance.
Successful localized interventions, such as community
education and support services, demonstrate the
potential for effective change when tailored to specific
contexts. However, a more systemic approach is
needed to achieve widespread and sustained impact.
Integrating dowry-related issues into broader gender
equality and socio-economic development frameworks
can enhance the effectiveness of interventions.
The final phase involves a review of existing policies
and interventions aimed at addressing dowry-related
issues. This includes an evaluation of their
effectiveness and identification of areas for
improvement. Based on the findings, the study
proposes recommendations for policy reforms and
community-based initiatives designed to mitigate the
negative effects of dowry and promote gender
equality. By combining historical analysis, case studies,
surveys, interviews, and policy reviews, this study aims
to offer a thorough examination of dowry as a
persistent social cancer and to contribute to the
development of effective strategies for addressing this
ongoing issue.
Volume 04 Issue 09-2024
4
American Journal Of Social Sciences And Humanity Research
(ISSN
–
2771-2141)
VOLUME
04
ISSUE
09
P
AGES
:
1-7
OCLC
–
1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
RESULTS
The research into dowry as a persistent social cancer
reveals several critical findings that underscore the
depth and complexity of the issue. The data indicates
that dowry practices perpetuate significant socio-
economic disparities. Families, particularly those from
lower socio-economic backgrounds, often face severe
financial strain as they meet dowry demands. This
economic burden not only exacerbates poverty but
also limits educational and employment opportunities
for women. The surveys reveal that dowry demands
frequently lead to financial hardship, with a substantial
proportion of families borrowing money or selling
assets to fulfill dowry expectations. This economic
pressure
reinforces
existing
inequalities
and
perpetuates a cycle of poverty.
The study highlights that dowry practices are deeply
intertwined with gender inequality. Historical and
contemporary data show that dowry systems reinforce
patriarchal norms by commodifying women and
treating them as financial liabilities rather than valued
individuals. Case studies from various regions reveal
that women subjected to dowry demands are often
devalued and faced with diminished autonomy. The
prevalence of dowry-related violence, including
domestic abuse and even dowry deaths, underscores
the severe consequences of these practices on
women's safety and well-being.
Despite legal prohibitions and reform efforts, dowry
practices persist due to deeply ingrained cultural
norms and social expectations. Interviews with
community members and stakeholders indicate that
traditional beliefs and customs continue to drive dowry
demands. The study finds that societal attitudes
toward dowry are resistant to change, with many
viewing it as a necessary tradition rather than a harmful
practice. This cultural persistence presents a significant
barrier to eradicating dowry practices and highlights
the need for more effective awareness and education
campaigns.
The analysis of policy interventions and community
initiatives reveals mixed results. While some legal
measures and awareness programs have led to a
reduction in dowry-related violence and improved
reporting, the overall impact remains limited. Case
studies of successful interventions show that localized
efforts, such as community-based education and
support services, have been more effective in
addressing dowry issues. However, widespread
systemic change is necessary to tackle the root causes
and reduce the prevalence of dowry practices
effectively.
Based on the findings, the study recommends several
strategies to address the persistent issue of dowry.
These include strengthening legal frameworks to
enforce existing dowry laws more effectively,
increasing public awareness campaigns to challenge
Volume 04 Issue 09-2024
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American Journal Of Social Sciences And Humanity Research
(ISSN
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2771-2141)
VOLUME
04
ISSUE
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P
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OCLC
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1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
cultural norms, and enhancing support services for
victims of dowry-related violence. Additionally,
fostering community engagement and collaboration
among stakeholders can play a crucial role in
promoting change and providing support to affected
individuals.
DISCUSSION
The persistent presence of dowry as a social cancer
reflects broader issues within societal structures and
cultural norms that perpetuate inequality and injustice.
The study confirms that dowry practices are
intrinsically linked to gender inequality. By treating
women as financial assets rather than autonomous
individuals, dowry systems reinforce patriarchal values
that devalue women and limit their opportunities. The
prevalence of dowry-related violence and the
commodification of women underscore the severe
repercussions of these practices. The cultural
normalization of dowry perpetuates a cycle of
discrimination and abuse, highlighting the need for
comprehensive gender-sensitive interventions that
challenge and change deeply entrenched societal
attitudes.
The economic strain imposed by dowry demands is a
major concern, particularly for families from lower
socio-
economic backgrounds. The study’s findings
reveal that dowry practices exacerbate financial
hardship and contribute to poverty, as families often
resort to borrowing or selling assets to meet dowry
expectations. This economic burden not only impacts
immediate financial stability but also limits long-term
opportunities for education and employment,
particularly for women. Addressing these socio-
economic disparities requires targeted economic
support and financial literacy programs to alleviate the
financial pressures associated with dowry.
The persistence of dowry practices despite legal
prohibitions and reform efforts can be attributed to
enduring cultural and social norms. The resistance to
change is rooted in traditional beliefs and practices
that view dowry as a necessary aspect of marriage. The
study’s interviews and case studies reveal that
challenging these norms requires a shift in societal
attitudes and greater emphasis on education and
awareness. Community-led initiatives and engagement
with cultural leaders are crucial in promoting a broader
understanding of the negative impacts of dowry and
fostering cultural change.
Strengthening the enforcement of dowry laws and
ensuring that legal frameworks are effectively
implemented are critical steps in addressing dowry
practices. Public awareness campaigns should focus on
challenging cultural norms and promoting gender
equality. Additionally, providing support services for
victims and engaging communities in dialogue about
the harms of dowry are essential for fostering change.
Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach
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OCLC
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1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
that combines legal reform, cultural change, and
community support to mitigate the harmful effects of
dowry and promote a more equitable society.
CONCLUSION
The investigation into dowry as a persistent social
cancer reveals a deeply entrenched practice that
perpetuates gender inequality and socio-economic
disparities across various societies. Despite legal
prohibitions and reform efforts, dowry practices
continue to exert a profound negative impact on
individuals and communities, reinforcing patriarchal
norms and exacerbating financial burdens on families.
The findings of this study highlight several key issues:
the perpetuation of gender-based discrimination, the
economic strain imposed on families, and the resilience
of cultural norms that sustain dowry practices. The
evidence indicates that dowry systems are not merely
relics of the past but persistent societal issues that
demand comprehensive and sustained intervention.
Addressing the problem of dowry requires a
multifaceted
approach.
Strengthening
legal
frameworks and ensuring effective enforcement are
essential steps in combating dowry-related violence
and exploitation. However, legal measures alone are
insufficient. Cultural change is equally important,
necessitating robust public awareness campaigns and
community engagement to challenge and transform
deeply ingrained social norms. Economic support and
educational initiatives are crucial in mitigating the
financial pressures associated with dowry. Providing
resources and financial literacy programs to families
affected by dowry demands can help alleviate some of
the economic burdens and reduce the prevalence of
dowry-related practices.
Furthermore, successful interventions should be
context-specific, acknowledging the diverse cultural
and socio-economic landscapes in which dowry
practices
occur.
Localized
efforts,
including
community-based education and support services, play
a vital role in addressing dowry issues effectively. In
conclusion, while dowry remains a persistent and
harmful social cancer, a concerted and comprehensive
approach that combines legal reform, cultural change,
and community support offers a path toward
mitigating its impact. By addressing the root causes
and challenging the underlying societal norms, it is
possible to foster a more equitable and just society
where dowry practices no longer undermine the rights
and opportunities of individuals. Continued research,
advocacy, and action are essential to advancing this
goal and achieving meaningful progress in the fight
against dowry.
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VOLUME
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OCLC
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1121105677
Publisher:
Oscar Publishing Services
Servi
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