JSSHRF ISSN: 2748-9345
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8
UNDERSTANDING DIVORCE: CULTURAL PERSPECTIVES AND PRACTICES AMONG BUGIS
AND AMBON PEOPLE IN AMBON
Ndari Hidayat
Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
AB O U T ART I CL E
Key words:
Divorce, Bugis, Ambon, cultural
perspectives, family dynamics, community
support, traditional beliefs.
Received:
22.06.2024
Accepted
: 27.06.2024
Published
: 02.07.2024
Abstract:
This study explores the cultural
perspectives and practices surrounding divorce
among Bugis and Ambon people in Ambon.
Through qualitative research methods including
interviews and ethnographic observations, the
study examines the societal norms, traditional
beliefs, and legal frameworks that shape attitudes
towards divorce within these communities. Key
themes include the role of family dynamics,
community support structures, and religious
influences in the decision-making process and
outcomes of divorce. By shedding light on these
cultural nuances, the study aims to contribute to a
deeper understanding of marital dissolution in
diverse cultural contexts.
INTRODUCTION
Divorce is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that reflects the intersection of
personal, cultural, and societal factors. Among the Bugis and Ambon people in Ambon, Indonesia,
divorce represents not only the dissolution of marital ties but also embodies cultural values, traditional
beliefs, and community dynamics. Understanding the perspectives and practices surrounding divorce
within these communities provides valuable insights into the broader context of family life and social
relationships.
In the Bugis and Ambon cultures, marriage is often regarded as a pivotal institution that not only unites
individuals but also establishes alliances between families and communities. The decision to marry and
subsequently to divorce is influenced by a variety of factors, including religious teachings, customary
laws, economic considerations, and social expectations. These factors shape the perceptions of
marriage and divorce, influencing how individuals navigate the complexities of marital relationships.
Furthermore, within Bugis and Ambon societies, family structures play a crucial role in shaping
attitudes towards divorce. Extended families and kinship networks often provide emotional, financial,
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ISSN: 2748-9345
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and practical support during marital crises and divorce proceedings. The support or pressure exerted
by family members can significantly impact the decision-making process and outcomes of divorce.
Religious beliefs also hold considerable sway in determining the cultural norms surrounding divorce
among Bugis and Ambon people. Islam, Christianity, and indigenous belief systems each contribute
unique perspectives on marriage and divorce, influencing legal frameworks and societal attitudes
towards marital dissolution.
This study aims to explore these cultural perspectives and practices surrounding divorce among Bugis
and Ambon people in Ambon through qualitative research methods. By delving into the intricacies of
family dynamics, community support structures, and religious influences, this research seeks to
illuminate the complexities of divorce within these cultural contexts. Ultimately, this exploration
contributes to a deeper understanding of how cultural values and traditions shape marital relationships
and influence the experiences of individuals and families facing divorce in Bugis and Ambon
communities.
METHODOLOGY
This study employs a qualitative approach to investigate the cultural perspectives and practices
surrounding divorce among Bugis and Ambon people in Ambon, Indonesia. Qualitative methods are
particularly suited to explore complex social phenomena and cultural dynamics, allowing for an in-
depth understanding of participants' experiences, perceptions, and beliefs.
Participant Selection and Recruitment:
Participants for this study are selected using purposive sampling, aiming to include a diverse range of
individuals with varying experiences related to divorce within Bugis and Ambon communities. Key
informants include individuals who have undergone divorce, family members, community elders,
religious leaders, and legal professionals involved in divorce proceedings. The sampling strategy
ensures representation from different socio-economic backgrounds, ages, genders, and religious
affiliations to capture a broad spectrum of perspectives.
Data Collection Techniques:
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Data collection methods primarily include semi-structured interviews and participant observation.
Semi-structured interviews allow for open-ended discussions with participants, exploring their
personal experiences, cultural beliefs, and societal attitudes towards divorce. Interviews are conducted
in Bahasa Indonesia or local dialects, respecting participants' linguistic preferences to facilitate natural
and comprehensive responses.
Participant observation involves immersing in community settings and observing everyday
interactions, rituals, and practices related to marriage and divorce. This method provides contextual
insights into the cultural norms and dynamics that shape marital relationships and divorce within Bugis
and Ambon societies.
Ethical Considerations:
Ethical considerations are paramount throughout the research process. Informed consent is obtained
from all participants, ensuring their voluntary participation and confidentiality of their responses.
Researchers maintain cultural sensitivity and respect for local customs and traditions during data
collection, interpretation, and dissemination.
Data Analysis:
Data analysis involves thematic analysis of qualitative data obtained from interviews and participant
observation. Themes related to cultural beliefs, family dynamics, community support, religious
influences, and legal frameworks are identified and systematically analyzed. This iterative process
helps uncover patterns, contradictions, and cultural nuances surrounding divorce among Bugis and
Ambon people.
Validity and Reliability:
To enhance validity and reliability, triangulation of data sources is employed, combining multiple
perspectives and data collection methods. Peer debriefing and member checking are also conducted to
validate findings and interpretations with participants and colleagues familiar with Bugis and Ambon
cultures.
By employing qualitative research methods and focusing on cultural perspectives and practices, this
study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of divorce among Bugis and Ambon people in Ambon.
The findings contribute to broader discussions on marital relationships, family dynamics, and societal
norms within diverse cultural contexts, ultimately informing policies and interventions that support
individuals and families experiencing divorce in these communities.
RESULTS
The study on divorce among Bugis and Ambon people in Ambon reveals rich cultural perspectives and
diverse practices that shape marital dissolution within these communities. Through qualitative analysis
of interviews and participant observations, several key findings emerge:
Cultural and Religious Influences: Both Bugis and Ambon cultures exhibit strong influences from Islam
and Christianity, which significantly impact attitudes towards marriage and divorce. Islamic teachings,
for instance, emphasize the sanctity of marriage but also provide provisions for divorce under certain
circumstances, whereas Christian beliefs may vary in their interpretations of divorce.
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Family Dynamics: Family plays a central role in decisions regarding marriage and divorce among Bugis
and Ambon people. Extended family members often provide emotional support and guidance during
marital crises, while also influencing the negotiation and resolution of divorce proceedings.
Community Support and Stigma: Divorce carries varying degrees of stigma within Bugis and Ambon
communities. While some individuals may face social repercussions or ostracization, community
support networks also offer practical assistance and mediation to resolve disputes and support
individuals through divorce processes.
Legal and Cultural Norms: Legal frameworks, often intertwined with customary practices, shape the
formal processes of divorce among Bugis and Ambon people. Traditional dispute resolution
mechanisms, alongside formal legal procedures, provide avenues for resolving marital conflicts and
addressing the division of assets and responsibilities.
DISCUSSION
The findings underscore the complex interplay of cultural, religious, and social factors in shaping
attitudes towards divorce among Bugis and Ambon people in Ambon. Cultural norms that emphasize
familial obligations and community cohesion influence individuals' decisions to marry and their
considerations during divorce. Religious teachings provide moral and legal frameworks that guide
marital relationships and dissolution.
Family dynamics emerge as pivotal in navigating divorce, with extended kinship networks playing roles
in both supporting and potentially complicating the decision-making process. Community attitudes and
support systems contribute significantly to individuals' experiences of divorce, impacting their social
standing and emotional well-being.
The intersection of legal and cultural norms highlights the hybrid nature of divorce practices among
Bugis and Ambon communities, where customary practices often complement or compete with formal
legal procedures. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing culturally sensitive
interventions and support mechanisms for individuals and families experiencing divorce.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the study provides valuable insights into the cultural perspectives and practices
surrounding divorce among Bugis and Ambon people in Ambon. The findings illuminate the
complexities of marital dissolution within these communities, highlighting the roles of religion, family
dynamics, community support, and legal frameworks in shaping individuals' experiences of divorce.
Moving forward, policies and interventions aimed at supporting individuals and families experiencing
divorce in Bugis and Ambon communities should consider the cultural nuances and social dynamics
identified in this study. By acknowledging and respecting cultural beliefs and practices, stakeholders
can promote more effective support systems and interventions that uphold the dignity and well-being
of individuals navigating divorce within these cultural contexts.
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