Exploring the perceptions & experiences of dowry practices (groom price) among medical students of Faculty of Health- Care Sciences, Eastern University, Sri Lanka

Abstract

The payment of dowry, in which the bride's family gives money, property, or other valuables to the family of the prospective husband, is a common custom. It has an extensive past and an eclectic cultural legacy, and it has links to multiple societal, economic, and gender components. This research backdrop attempts to present a summary of dowry, its historical significance, cultural variances, and the manifestations it takes in various circumstances. The present research focuses at the many facets of dowry in the hope to clarify how it affects individuals, families, and societies. The purpose of this study was to examine the knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and experiences of medical students of Faculty of Health Care-Sciences, Eastern university, Sri Lanka regarding, exploring the perceptions & experiences of dowry practices (groom price) with the aim of gaining insights into their understanding of this social phenomenon and its implications for individuals and society. An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among the medical students of the Faculty of Health Care Sciences at Eastern University, Sri Lanka, encompassing cohorts from the 12th batch to the 17th batch medicine. Following approval from the Dean of FHCS EUSL, data collection was undertaken utilizing a validated and pretested self-administered questionnaire. Subsequently, the collected data were analyzed using SPSS software version 27. Our research uncovered variations in attitudes towards dowry based on factors such as socio-economic background, geographic location (43.1% results favor equal distribution in both urban and rural areas), and personal experiences (42.3% of participants have personally participated in dowry related discussions). Interestingly, some participants reported instances of resistance (among male 63.21% are not willing to get dowry and among female participants 83.23% are not willing to give dowry) to dowry demands within their own families or social circles, indicating a gradual shift in societal norms. Furthermore, participants emphasized the role of education and empowerment in combating dowry-related pressures and promoting gender equality. Overall, the findings highlight the complexity of dowry practices among FHCS medical students and underscore the importance of comprehensive interventions to address this multifaceted issue. Our research underscores the urgent need for targeted cultural and legal reforms to address the pervasive issue of dowry across communities. By promoting gender equality and challenging social norms, we can forge a path toward a more equitable and safer environment for all.