The transformation of marital values in contemporary Vietnam

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Overview of the research

Research on the transformation of marital values in Vietnam has expanded notably in recent decades, reflecting major socio-economic and cultural changes. Foundational studies such as Results of the 2006 Vietnam Family Survey by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, General Statistics Office, Institute of Family and Gender Studies, and United Nations Children’s Fund [2008] document a clear shift from arranged marriages to unions grounded in affection, increasing individualization, and rising divorce rates. Complementing this, Tran Thi Minh Thi [2020] observes that the Vietnamese family has undergone significant transformations over recent decades, transitioning from a traditional family structure toward one characterized by more modern, liberal, and flexible features. Processes of international integration - particularly cultural exchange have contributed to the emergence of more open attitudes toward marriage and family in Vietnam.

Nguyen Huu Minh [2015] evaluates the achievements of family-related policies and practices in Vietnam in the post-Doi Moi period (1986-2015), highlighting improvements in living standards, advancements in gender equality, and the strengthening of families’ child-rearing and educational functions. At the same time, the study identifies persistent challenges, including enduring gender identities, domestic violence, and intergenerational conflicts arising from increasing individualization. From the perspective of practices, Hoang Ba Thinh [2021] focuses on multiple dimensions of family change in Vietnam, including transformations in marriage patterns, family types, family size, and the core functions of the family. The study analyzes key factors driving these changes and examines the relationship between public policy and family transformation in contemporary Vietnam.

Research focusing on motivations and perceptions of marriage illustrates additional dimensions of change. Giuse Pham Cong Hien [2022] finds that modern youth increasingly emphasize emotional compatibility, mutual respect, and psychological well-being. Meanwhile, highlights more tolerant attitudes toward divorce and remarriage-marking a shift away from endurance-oriented marital norms.

International scholarship enriches this discourse. Russian researchers such as Marchenko E.A. [2011] and Sunnerberg М.А. [2017] analyze Vietnam as a society renegotiating marital values amid global integration, noting tensions between Confucian family obligations and emerging ideals of equality and individual agency. They also emphasize the influence of legal reforms, particularly the Law on Marriage and Family 2014, in reshaping expectations about autonomy, property rights, and divorce. Broader comparative studies by Charles Hirschman, Bussarawan Teerawichitchainan [2004] and Wei-Jun Jean Yeung, Sonalde Desai, and Gavin W. Jones [2018] similarly position Vietnam at the intersection of East Asian traditions and global modernity, with love-based marriage and gender equality becoming increasingly central.

Overall, existing literature provides a multifaceted portrait of evolving marital values in Vietnam, addressing modernization effects, generational shifts, gender transformations, and legal-institutional influences. However, most studies analyze isolated aspects rather than offering a systematic synthesis. The present article aims to address this gap by providing an integrated examination of the formation, transformation, and social implications of marital values in contemporary Vietnam.

Methodology

To elucidate the transformation of marital values in contemporary Vietnam, this article applies a combination of traditional social science methods and interdisciplinary approaches.

First, the analytical and comparative method is employed to examine the foundations of Vietnamese marital values, identify emerging transformative trends, and assess their social impacts. Comparative analysis helps clarify differences in marital norms, perceptions, and behaviors across various social groups.

Second, the historical method is used to trace the inheritance, adaptation, and acculturation of marital values over time, while highlighting the influence of political, economic, and socio-cultural contexts on the current value system.

Third, the method of synthesis and generalization enables the author to integrate theoretical foundations, summarize key characteristics and trends of value transformation, and formulate strategic orientations for fostering progressive marital values.

Fourth, the interdisciplinary approach, drawing from sociology, social psychology, cultural studies, and anthropology, provides a comprehensive and in-depth framework for examining marital values as complex socio-cultural phenomena embedded in the evolving realities of Vietnamese society.

Research findings

Vietnamese marital values have been shaped by the interaction of Confucianism, Buddhism, folk beliefs, and traditional village culture. These cultural influences not only provided moral guidance but also structured concrete norms governing marital roles, family hierarchy, and expectations within family life.

Confucianism, introduced during periods of Chinese rule and reinforced under the Ly-Tran-Le dynasties, strongly influenced family organization and marital relations. It emphasized social hierarchy, filial piety, and clearly differentiated gender roles. Principles such as “distinct roles between husband and wife” defined the hierarchical relationship between spouses, while the dictum “among the three forms of unfilial conduct, having no male heir is the most serious” stressed the importance of lineage continuation, making childbirth-particularly the birth of sons-a key objective of marriage. These ideas were institutionalized through social practices such as arranged marriages, status compatibility between families, and moral expectations embodied in the codes of “the three obediences” and “the four virtues” [Nguyễn Thế Long 2006: 42].

Traditional Vietnamese marital morality was also grounded in the ethical virtues of benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and trustworthiness, which emphasized love, responsibility, fidelity, filial piety, and respect for elders. These values were reinforced in everyday cultural expressions, including proverbs such as “when husband and wife are united, even the East Sea can be drained”, highlighting harmony and mutual support as the foundation of marital stability. Buddhism further shaped marital conduct by encouraging compassion, tolerance, and moral self-discipline, thereby promoting harmony within family life. Meanwhile, folk beliefs and village traditions strengthened kinship solidarity through practices such as ancestor worship, family rituals, and community conventions governing marital relations.

Socio-economic changes and the diffusion of modern ideologies have significantly reshaped marital roles and expectations in Vietnam. In traditional agrarian society, marriage functioned primarily as an economic partnership within extended families, where gender roles were clearly defined: men were responsible for income generation and public affairs, while women undertook domestic work and childcare. However, processes of industrialization, urbanization, and economic restructuring have gradually altered these arrangements by promoting women’s economic participation, reducing financial dependency within marriage, and encouraging the transition from extended to nuclear family structures.

At the same time, Vietnam’s integration into global economic and cultural systems since the Doi Moi reforms has facilitated the spread of modern values such as gender equality, individual autonomy, and love-based partnership. The increasing participation of women in the labor market has strengthened their autonomy and decision-making power within families. In 2024, Vietnam’s female labor force participation rate reached approximately 69.1% [Viet Nam - Featured indicators 2024], contributing to more egalitarian marital relations despite the persistence of women’s “double burden” of paid work and domestic responsibilities.

Individual autonomy has also become increasingly influential in partner selection and marriage timing. Demographic data indicate that the mean age at first marriage in Vietnam reached 27.3 years in 2024, including 29.4 years for men and 25.2 years for women among the population aged 15 and above [Kết quả chủ yếu… 2024: 32]. This pattern reflects the growing importance of personal readiness, educational attainment, and career development before entering marriage.

In addition, rapid digital expansion has transformed patterns of relationship formation. With internet penetration reaching 79.1% of the population [Digital 2024: Vietnam 2024], online dating platforms such as Tinder, Bumble, Facebook Dating, Omi, and Litmatch have expanded opportunities for meeting potential partners beyond traditional social networks. While these platforms enhance individual choice in romantic relationships, they may also generate unrealistic expectations and new forms of relational tension.

Marriage in Vietnam is undergoing notable changes, marked by the emergence of new trends that reflect shifts in the thinking and lifestyles of Vietnamese people.

First, the trend of delayed marriage and singlehood.

In the past, early marriage-particularly among women-was common in Vietnam, closely aligned with traditional expectations regarding family formation and social responsibility. In recent years, however, delayed marriage has become increasingly prevalent, especially in major urban areas. Young Vietnamese adults now tend to prioritize higher education, career development, and financial stability before entering marriage. This shift is closely associated with rising educational attainment. In 2024, approximately 26.4% of the population aged 15 and above possessed technical or professional qualifications, representing an increase of 7.2% compared to 2019 and 9.2% compared to 2014 [Kết quả chủ yếu… 2024: 39]. Extended educational trajectories and growing labor market competition contribute to postponing marriage until individuals achieve psychological and economic readiness.

Alongside delayed marriage, the proportion of individuals remaining single has increased significantly. The 2024 Mid-term Population and Housing Survey reports that 25.1% of the population aged 15 and above had never married [Kết quả chủ yếu… 2024: 29], with the pattern particularly evident in urban areas and among highly educated groups. Modern youth increasingly value personal autonomy and self-development, and marriage is no longer regarded as a compulsory life milestone. Youth life satisfaction remains relatively high, with 66.1% of women and 61.6% of men aged 15–24 reporting that they feel very or somewhat happy, and average life satisfaction scores of 7.5 and 7.1, respectively [Báo cáo kết quả… 2021: 476]. These findings suggest that personal well-being among young people is not necessarily dependent on marital status, reflecting broader processes of individualization in contemporary Vietnamese society.

Second, the emergence of new forms of marriage.

Premarital cohabitation has become increasingly visible among young Vietnamese, reflecting changing attitudes toward sexuality, marriage, and partner selection in the context of social modernization. This trend is particularly evident among urban youth, where greater exposure to global cultural norms and increasing individual autonomy influence relationship practices. Surveys indicate that approximately 48.8% of Vietnamese respondents express acceptance of cohabitation and premarital sexual relationships, suggesting a significant shift in social norms regarding intimate relationships [Results of a Preliminary Survey… 2022]. Studies on youth reproductive behavior also show rising premarital sexual activity, with 30.2% of migrant youth reporting premarital sexual experience, reflecting changing patterns of intimate relationships and partnership formation [2016 National Survey… 2018: 31]. From a functional perspective, cohabitation allows couples to test compatibility, negotiate roles, and develop mutual understanding before formal commitment. However, cohabiting unions without legal registration remain inadequately protected under Vietnamese family law, which may create risks related to property rights, financial responsibility, and child custody in cases of separation. Moreover, social acceptance remains uneven, particularly in rural areas where traditional norms continue to emphasize legally sanctioned marriage and family approval.

Financial pressures and the increasing demands of modern life have led some couples to reconsider parenthood. For many young families, raising children is perceived as both economically burdensome and emotionally demanding. Surveys indicate that 91% of respondents consider the cost of child-rearing to be high, while 85% report significant emotional stress related to children’s education, healthcare, and uncertain future prospects [Modernity, cost of living… 2025]. As a result, some couples deliberately choose a child-free marriage in order to prioritize personal well-being, career development, and lifestyle preferences. Whereas children were once regarded as essential to marital fulfillment in traditional Vietnamese culture, an increasing number of couples now believe that a satisfying life can be achieved without parenthood. This shift may reduce economic and psychological pressures on young couples and allow greater personal freedom. However, child-free marriages may also face potential challenges in the future, including concerns about loneliness in old age and continuing social expectations shaped by traditional family norms.

Living-apart marriage (LAT) refers to a marital arrangement in which couples maintain their marital relationship while residing in different locations. In Vietnam, this pattern has become increasingly common due to labor migration, overseas employment, economic disparities between urban and rural areas, and the expanding opportunities for education and employment. Many spouses live and work in different cities or abroad in order to improve their income and pursue better career opportunities, while others temporarily live apart for purposes of study or professional development. In addition to economic and occupational factors, changing family values and the growing emphasis on personal autonomy have also led some couples to maintain separate living spaces while sustaining their marital commitment. Although LAT provides greater flexibility for career advancement and enhances individual independence, prolonged separation may weaken emotional intimacy and increase the risk of misunderstandings, thereby affecting the stability of family life.

Intercultural and transnational marriages in Vietnam have increased in recent decades. The growing accessibility of international mobility and cross-cultural interaction has created more opportunities for Vietnamese citizens to establish relationships with foreign partners. According to the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in the first ten months of 2023 Vietnam recorded more than 18,200 marriages involving foreign nationals, nearly 90% of which involved Vietnamese women. The Mekong Delta region reported the highest number of citizens entering marriages with foreign partners. The countries and territories with the largest numbers of marriages with Vietnamese citizens included Taiwan (over 17,300 cases), South Korea (over 13,900), the United States (nearly 13,000), and China (approximately 5,300) [Hồng Chiêu 2024]. Despite the growing prevalence of this trend, intercultural and transnational marriages also face various challenges. Differences in language, cultural norms, legal systems, and living conditions may create marital tensions, complicate communication, and potentially affect long-term family stability.

Third, changing perceptions of gender roles and responsibilities in marriage.

The roles of husbands and wives in Vietnamese families have undergone substantial changes in recent years. Traditionally, men were viewed as the primary breadwinners, while women were responsible for household chores and childcare. However, this gender-based division of labor is gradually shifting. Women now hold increasingly higher social status and enjoy greater decision-making power within marriage. They are no longer confined to domestic duties but are entitled to pursue careers on an equal footing with men. Marital equality is gaining ground, as spouses share responsibilities in child-rearing and household tasks-obligations previously reserved for women.

In addition, the ideal images of wives and husbands are evolving. The ideal wife is no longer merely a proficient homemaker but also an independent, career-oriented individual capable of balancing family and work life. Meanwhile, the ideal husband is expected not only to provide financially but also to actively participate in domestic chores and childrearing and to support his wife in making important decisions. Nevertheless, tension persists in families where traditional mindsets prevail, often placing women at a disadvantage. Despite having successful careers, women are still expected to fulfill traditional roles as wives and mothers, creating significant pressure for modern Vietnamese women.

Fourth, changing attitudes toward divorce and sustainable marriage.

In traditional Vietnamese society, divorce was regarded as a stigmatized phenomenon, particularly for women. In the contemporary context, however, social perceptions of divorce have become more open and pragmatic, as it is increasingly viewed as a legitimate solution to marriages that no longer provide happiness. Notably, women have gained greater autonomy in terminating unhappy or abusive relationships in order to rebuild their personal lives. This shift in perception has, to some extent, contributed to the rising number of divorce cases in Vietnam. By 2024, Vietnam recorded 2,225,937 individuals who were divorced or separated, including 963,337 men and 1,262,599 women, indicating a notable gender disparity in marital dissolution [Kết quả chủ yếu… 2024: 123]

In contrast to the rising trend of divorce, sustainable marriage remains an important objective in contemporary Vietnamese society. Premarital counseling and marriage education programs are increasingly encouraged to equip couples with conflict-resolution skills, enhance mutual understanding, and strengthen the foundations of marital relationships. Survey data also indicate a growing level of consensus and equality between spouses within the family. Specifically, 90.1% of respondents reported that decisions regarding the number and gender of children are made jointly by both partners; 89.3% stated that housing purchases are decided mutually; 84.7% indicated that lending or borrowing property is discussed jointly; and 83.7% and 82%, respectively, affirmed that decisions concerning child care, upbringing, and school selection are made by both spouses [Phan Thị Luyện 2024]. These findings reflect a clear transition from a patriarchal family model toward a partnership-based marital relationship characterized by shared responsibility, thereby contributing to the sustainability of marriage in modern society.

Fifth, changing views on childbearing and parenting.

In traditional Vietnamese culture, large families were often regarded as symbols of happiness, prosperity, and good fortune. Sons were particularly valued for continuing the family lineage, while children were considered an important source of support for parents in old age. However, these norms have gradually changed in contemporary society. Many couples now choose to have fewer children, postpone childbirth, or even adopt a child-free lifestyle. Such decisions are influenced by multiple factors, including financial pressures, the rising costs of childrearing and childcare, changing perceptions of family happiness, women’s career aspirations, modern lifestyles, as well as reproductive health issues. According to recent data from the Ministry of Health, the infertility rate among young couples in Vietnam is approximately 7.7%, equivalent to around 700,000 to one million couples [Lê Nga 2026]. These factors have contributed to a noticeable decline in fertility levels, with the total fertility rate in Vietnam falling to about 1.91 children per woman of reproductive age in 2024, below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman [Kết quả chủ yếu… 2024: 43].

Alongside changing attitudes toward childbearing, parenting practices have also evolved. In the past, the primary objective of parents was simply to raise children to adulthood; today, many families aim to nurture well-rounded and successful individuals. Education and healthcare have become top priorities, leading many families to have fewer children in order to invest more resources in each child’s development. Statistical data show that average annual household spending on education and training per student reached over 9.5 million VND in 2024, representing an increase of 36.3% compared to 2022 (7 million VND). Meanwhile, average healthcare expenditure per person receiving medical services exceeded 3.5 million VND in 2024, increasing by 41.9% compared to 2022, with spending levels significantly higher in urban areas than in rural areas [Thông cáo báo chí… 2025].

Overall, changing perceptions of childbearing and parenting reflect positive shifts in social awareness and living conditions among Vietnamese families. However, the continuing decline in fertility also poses new challenges for Vietnam’s demographic structure, particularly the increasing risk of population aging in the future.

The transformation of Vietnamese marital values in the contemporary context has generated positive outcomes while also posing several challenges and negative implications.

Positive impacts.

Changing marital values significantly promote gender equality. Women’s growing participation in education, the economy, and public life has strengthened their autonomy in decisions related to marriage, career, and finances. This shift reduces dependency on traditional family structures and contributes to more egalitarian relationships. Men’s increasing involvement in domestic labor and childcare also helps redistribute responsibilities within the household, easing the burdens historically placed on women. Legal reforms and gender-rights movements further safeguard equal entitlements in marriage, supporting stronger and more democratic family foundations.

The transformation enhances individual freedom and personal agency. Marriage is increasingly viewed as a voluntary choice grounded in love and mutual compatibility rather than a social obligation. Individuals now determine marriage timing in accordance with career goals and personal development. This shift reduces family and societal pressure, limits forced marriages, and strengthens consensual unions. The acceptance of diverse marital arrangements-including premarital cohabitation-reflects a broader societal openness toward nontraditional pathways to family formation.

Modern marital values have improved relationship quality by encouraging mutual respect, communication, and shared decision-making. Couples entering marriage voluntarily and with clearer expectations experience greater stability and lower levels of conflict. Shared emotional investment and equitable division of responsibilities contribute to a decline in domestic violence and foster more supportive child-rearing environments. Stronger financial stability among couples who marry later further reduces stress and promotes harmonious family life. The contemporary marital model emphasizes partnership, enhancing resilience and long-term satisfaction.

Shifting values have increased recognition of diverse family structures such as nuclear families, single-parent households, and childfree families. Reduced pressure to conform to traditional norms broadens societal perceptions of legitimate family forms. Heightened awareness of human rights in marriage also helps eliminate harmful practices, including child marriage and coerced unions. Legal protections, social organizations, and media-based educational initiatives play important roles in cultivating responsible and informed attitudes toward marriage, thereby reinforcing social stability.

Negative impacts.

The increasing number of divorce cases poses significant challenges to society. As of 2024, more than 2.2 million individuals in Vietnam were recorded as divorced or separated, with women accounting for a higher proportion than men. This situation reflects profound transformations in marital and family life within the context of contemporary social change. Although divorce may enable individuals to escape from stressful or abusive relationships in certain cases, it also generates various social consequences. After divorce, many individuals face psychological pressure, loneliness, and emotional instability. Economically, women often experience greater disadvantages, as they frequently bear the dual responsibility of childrearing while maintaining household income. Moreover, children from divorced families may encounter psychological and emotional difficulties, including feelings of insecurity, declining academic performance, and challenges in forming stable relationships later in life.

The impacts of divorce extend beyond the nuclear family. Extended family members, particularly grandparents, may assume greater caregiving responsibilities for children following marital dissolution. At the societal level, the rising incidence of divorce also increases the demand for social support services, family welfare programs, and child protection systems. Consequently, the growing trend of divorce represents not only a private family matter but also a significant challenge for social stability and welfare policy in contemporary Vietnamese society.

The decline in fertility rates is increasing the risk of population aging and potential labor shortages in the future. When fertility remains below the replacement level for an extended period, the population structure tends to shift toward a rapidly growing proportion of older adults while the size of the working-age population gradually contracts. This demographic transition not only affects the supply of labor but also creates considerable pressure on social security systems and elderly care services.

The results of the 2024 Mid-term Population and Housing Survey indicate that the number of people aged 60 and above in Vietnam reached approximately 14.2 million, an increase of 2.8 million (about 1.25 times) compared to 2019 and 4.7 million (about 1.5 times) compared to 2014. Projections suggest that by 2030 the population aged 60 and over may reach nearly 18 million, representing an increase of almost 4 million people compared to 2024 [Kết quả chủ yếu… 2024: 26]. These figures demonstrate that population aging in Vietnam is occurring at a rapid pace, posing significant challenges for economic development, the labor market, and social welfare systems in the coming decades.

Confidence in marriage and traditional marital values appears to be gradually declining. Among a segment of young Vietnamese people today, marriage is no longer perceived as a social obligation or an inevitable life norm. Instead, it is increasingly viewed as a personal choice that can be reconsidered, modified, or even dissolved when it no longer meets the needs and expectations of the individuals involved. In this context, the value and durability of marriage have become more fragile than in the past. This shift in perception has, to some extent, weakened the role of traditional marital values such as perseverance, fidelity, and long-term commitment in family life. Consequently, this trend poses significant challenges to the preservation of traditional family values as well as to the stability of marriage as a social institution in contemporary Vietnamese society.

In Vietnam, the promotion of progressive marital values plays a crucial role in maintaining family stability and fostering sustainable social development. The following are key solutions to enhance and reinforce progressive values in marriage.

Raising awareness of marital values. It is essential to strengthen education on marriage and family in schools to help younger generations understand the responsibilities and values of marriage. Educational programs should emphasize communication skills, conflict resolution, and the sharing of family responsibilities. Media platforms-including television, social networks, and print media-should be used to disseminate narratives of happy and enduring marriages. Television programs, podcasts, and online forums should be developed to provide the public with a modern perspective on marriage.

Promoting gender equality in marriage. It is important to build family models in which both spouses share domestic work, childcare, and provide mutual support in their careers. Enterprises and the State should adopt parental leave policies for both men and women to encourage male participation in child-rearing. Equality in family decision-making should be guaranteed, ensuring that both spouses have equal say in important matters such as finances, parenting, residence, and employment. Raising awareness to reduce patriarchal thinking will help transform marriage into a partnership based on cooperation and mutual respect.

Implementing supportive policies for sustainable marriage. The government should consider implementing support programs such as childbirth subsidies, housing assistance, and tax reductions for families with young children to help newlyweds achieve financial stability. Expanding childcare services will enable parents to balance work and caregiving responsibilities. Improving preschool education, health insurance, and financial support for children can also alleviate economic pressures on families.

Expanding marital counseling and conflict resolution services. Developing marriage and family counseling centers can support couples in resolving disputes. Premarital education should be encouraged to prepare individuals for married life and teach them how to maintain long-term relationships. A culture of dialogue in marriage should be fostered, where couples are trained in communication, active listening, and empathy to prevent escalation of conflicts. Programs on healthy conflict resolution should be promoted to prevent divorce or domestic violence as default outcomes.

Preserving traditional family values. Positive traditional values such as respect, loyalty, and filial piety should be preserved while aligning with contemporary conceptions of marriage. Rather than enforcing norms such as “mandatory marriage” or “having children as a must,” individual choice should be respected. The negative influence of social media and foreign cultural elements that may erode traditional values must be managed. Unethical behaviors-such as domestic violence, infidelity, and irresponsible divorce-should be strictly dealt with to safeguard family stability.

Emphasizing love and commitment in marriage. Organizations and businesses can create opportunities for employees to engage in family-oriented activities such as retreats and family days to strengthen marital bonds. Couples should be encouraged to spend quality time together, avoiding the encroachment of work and life stress on their relationship. A culture that values marriage should be fostered to mitigate the influence of easy divorce or utilitarian marriage. Promoting fidelity and long-term commitment can help sustain marital stability.

In summary, this article has clarified the evolving trends in Vietnamese marital values, analyzed their social implications, and proposed context-appropriate policy directions. The research contributes not only to theoretical understanding by identifying and explaining key characteristics of contemporary marriage in Vietnam, but also provides practical value by offering a scientific basis for the formulation and implementation of policies related to family, population, gender equality, and sustainable development.

About the authors

Pham Thi Thuy

Author for correspondence.
Email: phamthuy88tb@gmail.com
ORCID iD: 0009-0006-2779-9010

Ph.D., Faculty of Political Theory and Law

References

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