Section Article

Dowry Practices in Modern India: A Socio-Psychological Exploration
Author(s): Imran Khan

Abstract
Despite decades of legal prohibitions and socio-political reform efforts dowry continues to persist as a deep-rooted social practice in modern India. The dowry system traditionally conceptualized as a transfer of wealth to the bride for her economic security has transformed into a vehicle of coercion commodification and often violence. This research paper undertakes a socio-psychological exploration of dowry practices in contemporary India by examining their historical development societal normalization psychological drivers and implications for gender relations. It also reflects on the legal mechanisms and cultural movements aimed at curbing the practice and argues that any effective resolution must involve a simultaneous reformation of collective attitudes social conditioning and legal enforcement. The paper concludes with recommendations for policy and educational interventions that address both the structural and psychological dimensions of the dowry system.