Abstract:
Marriage in Ethiopia is undergoing significant transformation due to urbanization, education, and shifting
gender norms, yet localized studies on evolving marital attitudes remain scarce. This study investigates
the prevailing attitudes, values, and norms toward marriage in Adet Town and surrounding areas, North
Gojjam Zone, Ethiopia, where traditional expectations increasingly intersect with modern influences. This
research addresses key gaps by exploring how socio-demographic factors shape marital perceptions and
the implications for policy and community interventions. Employing a concurrent mixed-methods design,
the study combined quantitative surveys (N=372) with qualitative data from focus group discussions
(FGDs) and key informant interviews (KIIs). Quantitative findings revealed strong endorsement of
marriage, with mean scores significantly exceeding test values, and occupation significantly influenced
perspectives, with men, rural residents, and economically stable individuals holding more traditional
views. Qualitative insights highlighted tensions between arranged and love marriages, economic barriers,
and generational divides, with youth prioritizing education and financial independence over early
marriage. Results indicate that while marriage remains a cornerstone of social life, attitudes are shifting,
particularly among urban and educated youth. Persistent challenges include early marriage in rural areas,
gendered marital expectations, and economic pressures delaying unions. The study concludes that marital
norms in Adet and its surrounding areas reflect a dynamic interplay between tradition and modernization,
necessitating culturally sensitive interventions. Recommendations include strengthening community
awareness programs on gender equity and legal marriage age, supporting youth education and economic
empowerment to reduce financial barriers to marriage, and fostering intergenerational dialogue to
reconcile traditional and modern marital values. Future research shall adopt longitudinal designs to track
these changes and their societal impacts.