Research note: Continuity or change: Intergenerational patrilocal residence patterns among Indians in India and abroad (USA, UK, and Canada)

Abstract

Objective: This paper examines patrilocality among Indian women in India, first-generation Indian immigrant women, and second-generation Indian women in Canada, the US, and the UK, analyzing the impact of age, education, and employment on post-marital co-residence patterns. Background: Patrilocality is associated with women's dependence and subordination in societies where it is prevalent. This paper investigates the incidence of patrilocality in the parent population and in three major destination countries for Indian immigrants (where it is uncommon), exploring the implications for gender dynamics. Method: The study presents a comparative descriptive analysis and examines the relationship between post-marital co-residence patterns and demographic variables of age, educational attainment, and employment status, using binary logistic regression. The sample includes Indian women in India (IPUMS, 2009), first-generation Indian immigrant women and second-generation Indian women in Canada (IPUMS, 2011) and US (IPUMS, 2015), and UK (UKLFS, 2008 to 2012). Results: Across all groups, women are more likely to live with their husbands’ parents rather than their own (patrilocality). Patrilocality decreases with age, varies with education across countries and generations, and is consistently lower among employed women. Conclusion: The findings highlight the persistence of patrilocal traditions in both India and the Indian diaspora, emphasizing the need to understand cultural norms, socioeconomic factors, and policy implications to advance gender equity.