Singlehood as a Lifestyle Choice in Youth: A Sociological Analysis

In recent decades, the state of being unmarried, instead of being viewed as a temporary or deviant marital status has emerged as a common and sometimes preferred lifestyle choice among youth. This article analyses singlehood as an active and meaningful life option not as a consequence of social or personal failure. In traditional Indian society, marriage was considered as an essential social requirement. However, the rise of individual-oriented values, increased educational attainment, greater economic independence and altered socio-economic factors have contributed to a marked growth in the preference for living single. The necessity of this study occurs because singlehood is often considered an 'interim state' or equivalent with 'loneliness'. On the other hand, a significant number of individuals now view it as an empowering and highly satisfying way of life. It is essential to understand that individuals choose this choice to prioritize personal growth, career, freedom and mental peace. This paper relies on secondary sources including the National Family Health Survey (NFHS), Census data along with numerous sociological and psychological research papers, articles and empirical studies. Drawing on theoretical analysis, the research aims to show the role of urbanization and globalization in changing family structures and representing singlehood as an empowered and socially acceptable life path. The paper findings show that singlehood should not be viewed as the absence of marriage. On the other hand, it is a powerful medium for self-discovery, self-reliance and establishing new social connections. This study strongly demands changes in social policies, mental health counselling and social attitudes, so that the life choices of single individuals can receive full respect and acceptance without any prejudice.