FROM MARRIAGE IS SCARY TO MARRIAGE READINESS: A SOCIO-LEGAL STUDY OF BANYUWANGI UNIVERSITY STUDENTS THROUGH ISLAMIC FAMILY LAW

Abstract

The rise of the TikTok trend Marriage is Scary reflects changing perceptions of marriage among younger generations and raises questions about how digital narratives interact with Islamic family-law values. This study examines Banyuwangi university students’ responses to the trend, identifies the factors shaping their perceptions, and analyzes its implications from the perspective of Islamic family law. Employing a qualitative socio-legal approach, the study draws on questionnaires and interviews with students from Islamic-based and general universities in Banyuwangi, supported by relevant scholarly literature. The findings show that students respond to the trend critically and reflectively rather than simply rejecting marriage. The content produces diverse effects, including greater caution, anxiety, and, for some students, stronger motivation to prepare for marriage through emotional, financial, and relational readiness. Social media exposure is the dominant factor, followed by family environment, social interaction, personal readiness, and religious understanding. From an Islamic family-law perspective, the trend does not necessarily represent a rejection of marriage but reflects legitimate concerns about marital risks and responsibilities. Through maqasid al-shari’ah, particularly the preservation of life and lineage and the prevention of harm, these concerns can be transformed into constructive marriage preparation. The study argues that digital marriage discourse can function as a catalyst for critical and responsible marriage readiness.