Psycho-affective immaturity as a cause for marriage nullity: an interdisciplinary analysis of law, sociology and emotions

Abstract

In the context of post-modern socio-relational and affective dynamics, marriage emerges as an institution that is still fundamental to social and family organization. However, the recent news that psycho-affective immaturity is considered the main cause of nullity of marriages in the regions of Abruzzo and Molise (Tribunale Ecclesiastico Interdiocesano Abruzzese-Molisano - TEIAM, 2025) raising important questions regarding the sociological and legal implications of this emerging interpretation. The essay, focuses, therefore, on the concept of “psycho-affective immaturity” not only from a legal point of view, but also and especially from an emotional macro sociological point of view to understand the reasons that influence the stability and legitimacy of marriage unions. The connections between socio-psycho-affective immaturity and the sociology of emotions will be explored more specifically, with reference to consistent legal developments.