Marriage is a social institution that has evolved throughout history and is manifested in different ways in different cultures and societies. Over the years, different types of marriages have been identified, each with its particular characteristics and its impact on the lives of the couples that make it up.
Traditional Marriages
1. Monogamous Marriage:
Monogamous marriage is the most common type in many cultures, in which one person marries another without the presence of third parties. It generally implies fidelity between spouses and exclusivity in the relationship.
2. Polygamous Marriage:
In contrast to monogamous marriage, in polygamous marriage a person can have multiple spouses at the same time. Depending on local culture and laws, it may be polygyny (a man with several wives) or polyandry (a woman with several husbands).
Modern Marriages
3. Equal Marriage:
Equal marriage is one in which two people of the same sex can legally marry. This type of union has gained acceptance in many societies in recent decades, promoting equal rights for all couples.
4. Civil Marriage:
Civil marriage is one that is performed before a civil registry official or a government authority, without any religious component. This type of union is legally recognized in many countries and offers the same rights and obligations as a religious marriage.
Alternative Marriages
5. Open Marriage:
In an open marriage, couples agree to be free to explore romantic or sexual relationships with others outside of the primary relationship. Honesty, communication and respect are fundamental pillars in this type of marriage.
6. Polyamorous Marriage:
Polyamorous marriage implies that a person can have romantic and/or sexual relationships with multiple people, with the consent and knowledge of all involved. Communication and management of feelings are key aspects in this type of union.
Cultural Marriages
7. Arranged Marriage:
In some cultures, arranged marriage is a common practice in which parents or third parties choose a person's marriage partner without their direct consent. Although this practice has decreased in many societies, it still persists in some regions.
8. Abduction Marriage:
In certain cultures, abduction marriage occurs when a man kidnaps a woman to marry her. Although this practice may be considered a crime in many jurisdictions, some groups still consider it traditional.
Religious Marriages
9. Catholic Marriage:
Catholic marriage is a sacramental union that is celebrated within the Catholic Church, with the blessing of a priest. This type of marriage implies commitment, fidelity and the intention to form a family according to the precepts of the Catholic faith.
10. Islamic Marriage:
In Islamic marriage, the traditions and laws of Islam are followed to formalize the union between a man and a woman. Polygamy is permitted in certain circumstances, as long as the rules established by Islamic law are followed.
Contemporary Marriages
11. Childfree Marriage:
Childfree marriage is one in which the couple consciously and voluntarily chooses not to have children. This decision can be based on different reasons, such as personal fulfillment, environmental sustainability or the preference for a life without children.
12. Gray Marriage:
Gray marriage refers to unions between people over 50 years of age, who may be in their second or third relationship. These couples often face unique challenges related to retirement, health, and extended family.
Marriages in Transformation
13. Trial Marriage:
In some countries like Mexico, there is a "trial marriage" in which couples can marry for a limited time to evaluate their compatibility and decide if they want to continue together. This modality provides the opportunity to get to know each other better before committing permanently.
14. Plurinational Marriage:
Plurinational marriage recognizes the cultural and ethnic diversity of couples, promoting harmonious coexistence between people of different nationalities or ethnicities. This type of union highlights the richness that diversity brings to romantic relationships.