How Does Religion Influence Marriage? Christian, Jewish, Mormon, and Muslim Perspectives

Keywords

Christian, Jewish, marriage, Mormon, Muslim, religion

Abstract

Seventy-six highly religious Christian, Jewish, Mormon, and Muslim married mothers and fathers were interviewed regarding how and why three dimensions of religion (i.e., faith community, religious practices, and spiritual beliefs) influence marriage in both beneficial and challenging ways. Through qualitative data analysis the author identified eight emergent themes that link religion and marriage: (1) the influence of clergy, (2) the mixed blessing of faith community service and involvement, (3) the importance of prayer, (4) the connecting influence of family ritual, (5) practicing marital fidelity, (6) pro-marriage/anti-divorce beliefs, (7) homogamy of religious beliefs, and (8) faith in God as a marital support. Qualitative data are presented in connection with each theme, and clinical implications are offered.

Original Publication Citation

Marks, L. D. (2005). How does religion influence marriage?: Christian, Jewish, Mormon, and Muslim perspectives. Marriage and Family Review, 38, 85-111.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2008-10-08

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/7699

Publisher

Marriage & Family Review

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Family Life

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

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