In both "Marriage Is a Private Affair" and "A Meeting in the Dark," young men fret that their fathers will disapprove of their potential wives. Why could parents disapprove of their child’s choice of a potential partner?
Parents could disapprove of their child's choice of a potential partner for a variety of reasons, including:
1. Cultural or religious differences: Parents may object if the potential partner comes from a different cultural or religious background. This could be due to concerns about conflicting values, traditions, or the potential challenges of integrating into a new cultural or religious environment.
2. Social or economic status: Parents may disapprove if the potential partner comes from a lower social or economic status. They might worry about financial stability, social compatibility, or the potential impact on their family's reputation.
3. Family feuds or rivalries: If there is an ongoing dispute or rivalry between families, parents may disapprove of their child's choice of a partner from the opposing family.
4. Age or maturity differences: Parents may object if they believe the potential partner is significantly older or younger than their child, perceiving it as a potential imbalance or lack of compatibility in the relationship.
5. Lack of parental approval or blessing: In some cultures or families, parental approval is considered essential before entering into a marriage. If the child chooses a partner without obtaining the parents' blessing, it may lead to disapproval.
6. Past behavior or reputation: Parents may have concerns about a potential partner's history, such as their previous relationships, legal troubles, or reputation within the community.
7. Lack of shared values or goals: If the potential partner has different values, goals, or aspirations that diverge greatly from those of the family, parents may disapprove due to concerns about long-term compatibility or the potential impact on their child's life.
It is important to note that these reasons for disapproval vary across cultures, families, and individual circumstances. What one family considers a valid concern, another may not.