Citation

Dalmia S. Res. Econ. 2004; 58(3): 235-255.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.rie.2004.03.002

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper uses data from a retrospective sample survey to develop and test a framework capable of explaining dowry exchange and groom selection in India. It adapts Rosen's implicit market model and finds support for the hypothesized, equalizing differences, role of marital arrangements for uneducated brides in India. The measurable groom characteristics on which price differentials arise empirically include groom's age at marriage, education and height. Consistent with ethnographic evidence, results indicate that dowries are higher in regions more to the north. Most importantly, contrary to popular belief, it is found that holding groom characteristics constant, real dowries have decreased over time. Furthermore, results reveal that the most important determinants of demand for various groom attributes are price of the attribute, bride's traits, and the socio-economic status of the bride's household.