n Commonwealth Youth and Development - Perceptions and attitudes of Malawian university students towards interdenominational marriage

Abstract

The article presents findings on a study on the perceptions and attitudes of Malawian university students towards interdenominational marriage. The article proceeds on the principle that denominations are important socialisation loci in any cultural setting. In addition, denominational teachings on marriage and the family may actually influence a member's choice of mate in marriage. The study was conducted at Bunda College of Agriculture - a constituent college of the University of Malawi - among 131 respondents drawn from the 535 students at the college. The findings indicate that denominations continue to play important social identity functions among students in Malawi. The findings also show that at least 50% of those dating, are doing so across denominational lines. However, some students show a high rate of intra-denominational dating. Among such students are the Seventh Day Adventists and the Pentecostals. It is the perception of the respondents that in the event of an interdenominational marriage, the wife should convert to the husband's denomination. While religion continues to play a vital role in the life of students, there is uncertainty about its role in the choice of a future spouse.