By Michaella Faith Wright

In recent years, rising divorce rates have sparked concerns over parental involvement in their children’s marriages, particularly the practice of parents choosing partners for their male children. Many young men find themselves in marriages arranged by their mothers, often leading to unhappy unions and eventual separations. Experts warn that this trend is negatively impacting the younger generation, as forced commitments often result in emotional distress and broken families.

Marriage should be a lifelong commitment based on love, understanding, and mutual choice. However, in many cultures, parents—especially mothers—believe they know what is best and impose their preferences on their sons when it comes to choosing a spouse. While parental guidance is important, forcing a young man into a marriage he is not emotionally or mentally prepared for can have serious consequences.

We have seen many cases where young men are pressured into relationships they do not want, only for these marriages to end in painful divorces. This has contributed to the rising number of broken homes and emotionally distressed individuals. Instead of ensuring stability, parents who insist on choosing their son’s partner often push them into unhappy situations that ultimately fail.

Moreover, marriage is not just about family approval—it requires love, trust, and compatibility. A parent’s choice does not guarantee happiness, and an individual should be free to choose a life partner based on personal feelings rather than cultural expectations. Times have changed, and it is essential that parents respect their children’s right to make their own decisions.

If this outdated practice continues, we will see more divorces and emotionally wounded individuals struggling with relationships they never wanted. Parents should offer guidance, but the final choice must belong to the individuals involved. Love should be a personal decision, not a forced obligation.