My main research agenda focuses on social and demographic transitions related to marriage, family structures, and ageing in South and Southeast Asia.

Marriage and divorce

I examine the changing marriage dynamics in Asia, focusing on demographic shifts in marriage, remarriage, divorce, and marital selection—including endogamy and homogamy. Significant changes are underway in Asian marriages, such as increased postponement of marriage and non-marriage, shifts in spouse selection criteria, diversification in partnering forms, and rising marital instability. I examine these changes by analysing demographic data from registration systems, censuses, and surveys across various Asian countries. The goal is to document, interpret, explain and theorise marriage changes in Asia.

Families and households

 

My research investigates the demographic transition in families and households. I examine shifts in family structures and household compositions, highlighting convergences and commonalities across diverse Asian societies. Factors such as increasing urbanisation, changing demographic patterns of fertility and migration, socio-economic shifts, and changing attitudes and aspirations are reshaping families and households. I evaluate the impact of these changes on the well-being of family members and on population policies.

Ageing

My research on changing families led me to examine the impact of ageing on family dynamics in Asia. I am particularly interested in examining intergenerational relationships, grandparenting, and the nature of exchanges, transfers, and support between generations. I focus on understanding how older individuals and their families adapt to and redefine intergenerational responsibilities in response to socio-economic shifts in South and Southeast Asia.