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Question

In a particular elementary structure of kinship, Group A gives its women in marriage to Group B, and Group B, in return, gives its women to Group A. What is this type of marriage known as?

The correct answer is
Restricted exchange

Kinship Marriage: Defining Restricted Exchange

The question describes a specific type of marriage system involving two distinct groups, Group A and Group B.

  • Group A provides women for marriage to Group B.
  • Group B, in return, provides women for marriage to Group A.

This describes a direct, symmetrical, and reciprocal exchange between only two groups. This specific form of marriage alliance is known as restricted exchange.

Understanding Restricted Exchange in Kinship

Restricted exchange refers to a marriage system where alliances are formed strictly between two specific social groups or categories. The exchange is direct and balanced, with each group giving spouses to the other.

This contrasts with other forms like generalized exchange, which typically involves more than two groups in a cyclical pattern.

Therefore, the scenario presented is a classic example of restricted exchange.

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Important Questions from Indian Family, Marriage & Kinship

  1. Which of the following author(s) highlighted the connection between kinship terminology and kinship structure in India?
  2. Reena and Sheena are Hindi-speaking neighbours who grew up together. Reena refers to Sheena's mother as *mausi* (mother's sister). This is an example of which of the following kinship type(s)?
  3. In Hindu society, marriage of a widow to the husband's brother is referred to as ___________
  4. Among the Toda of South India, property is inherited patrilineally and ritualistic privileges are inherited matrilineally. This is an example of _________ .

  5. Which of the following institutions provides the structural link between caste and gender in kinship in India?

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