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Cultural Universals and Variability in Romantic Relationships: A Study of the Maasai of
East Africa
Miranda L. Daniel
National University
Psyc441: Global Psychology
Dr. Leah Mancuso
February 23, 2025
, 2
Abstract
The research examines the Maasai people's traditional marriage customs and love relationships
in East Africa while analyzing cultural transcendent patterns with cultural particularities.
Marriage function as an established social institution worldwide yet the Maasai practice distinct
marriage customs which feature polygamous relationships and traditional arrangement of
marriages and complex male initiation rites. This paper evaluates the relations between Maasai
practices and worldwide relationship patterns by studying gender dynamics and economic
systems and social pressures. This research investigates the Maasai romantic customs through
cultural psychology alongside empirical research to deliver an extensive understanding of their
practices and their effects on cultural variations in relationships.
Cultural Universals and Variability in Romantic Relationships: A Study of the Maasai of
East Africa
Miranda L. Daniel
National University
Psyc441: Global Psychology
Dr. Leah Mancuso
February 23, 2025
, 2
Abstract
The research examines the Maasai people's traditional marriage customs and love relationships
in East Africa while analyzing cultural transcendent patterns with cultural particularities.
Marriage function as an established social institution worldwide yet the Maasai practice distinct
marriage customs which feature polygamous relationships and traditional arrangement of
marriages and complex male initiation rites. This paper evaluates the relations between Maasai
practices and worldwide relationship patterns by studying gender dynamics and economic
systems and social pressures. This research investigates the Maasai romantic customs through
cultural psychology alongside empirical research to deliver an extensive understanding of their
practices and their effects on cultural variations in relationships.
