Endogamy facts for kids

Endogamy is a word that describes when people choose to marry someone from the same group as themselves. This group could be based on their religion, their social class, or their family background. Sometimes, these marriages are arranged by families. This often happens to help the group stay strong and connected, rather than just being about love between two people.

Why people marry within their group

When people marry someone from their own group, they often share similar ideas, beliefs, and ways of life. This can make it easier for them to get along and understand each other. Sometimes, people choose to marry within their group because they feel it's a good match.

However, there are also times when there is less choice involved. Some groups strongly encourage or even expect their members to marry within the group. If someone marries outside the group, it might cause disapproval from their family or community.

Marrying within the group can help keep the group's traditions and culture alive. For example, if a Sikh family moves to a new country, they might look for other Sikh families to connect with. This helps their children find partners from the same background, which strengthens their community and helps them keep their traditions, especially when they are a smaller group in a new place.

Genes and Health

When people from the same group marry each other for many generations, their shared family history can lead to a smaller "gene pool." A gene pool is like the collection of all the different genes within a group of people. If this pool becomes too small, there's a higher chance that certain genetic diseases might become more common.

For instance, a genetic disease called Tay-Sachs disease is more often found in certain Jewish communities. This is because, historically, people within these communities often married each other, which meant certain genes were passed down more frequently within that group.

Related pages

• Exogamy

See also

In Spanish: Endogamia para niños