Struggles in Seeking Marital Alliance: Experience of an Individual Living with Schizophrenia

Social drift hypothesis postulates that mental illness can affect the socio-economic status of individuals, and that it leads people to a social drift from upper to lower social class. Marriage is an important social institution especially in South Asian countries like India. This case study explores how social drift hypothesis and other associated factors influence the issues faced by an individual while seeking marital alliance in individuals with schizophrenia. A single case is presented in which data has been collected from multiple key individuals who are involved in the care of a patient with schizophrenia. As observed, it is noted that marriage-related decisions in individuals with schizophrenia are influenced by social functioning, social support, occupational status and proper adherence to medication. The case reminds that preparing patients and caregivers for marriage is an important step towards improving quality of life among individuals living with schizophrenia.