Abstract
M.A. (Sociology)
Cohabitation is increasing globally and South Africa is no exception. Cohabitation has
resulted in a decline in marriage and might also be a contributor to the decline in
marriage. The high price of lobola, increased costs of weddings in South Africa and
increased unemployment of large number of black African men contributes to the
decline of marriage among blacks. Through interviews with 16 cohabiting unemployed
and employed men and women from Katlehong in the Gauteng Province this study
explored the effects of 'economic' issues on gender roles within cohabiting unions. Even
though traditionally men are considered breadwinners, statistics reveal an increase in
the unemployment of men. This growing unemployment influences the capacity of men
to provide and marry. On the other hand, increased numbers of women have access to
the labour market which changes the nature of the breadwinner role. The study findings
reveal that even though there are changes in unemployment rates and practices of
lobola, participants wish to marry but are unable to do so due to financial instability.
Again, it is evident the financial position of women and men affect gender roles within
relationships. From the findings men who cannot provide feel a sense of powerlessness
in their relationships. On the other hand, women who fulfill the breadwinner role are still
expected to adhere to their role in the domestic sphere, and thus underplay their
breadwinning position. This study contributes to knowledge on how traditional gender
roles are defied by financial challenges experienced within intimate relationships in a
South African township context.