Parallel vs Cross Cousins
Parallel and cross cousins play significant roles in some cultures, particularly in terms of marriage customs. In general, cousins are relatives related through blood connections, specifically consanguine relations. Parallel cousins are those coming from the same-sex siblings of oneโs parents, such as the children of a fatherโs brother or a motherโs sister. Cross cousins, on the other hand, are from the opposite-sex siblings of oneโs parents, such as the children of a fatherโs sister or a motherโs brother.
Key Takeaways
- Parallel cousins come from the same-sex siblings of oneโs parents, while cross cousins come from the opposite-sex siblings of oneโs parents.
- Parallel cousins are often referred to as โbrothersโ or โsisters,โ whereas cross cousins are called โbrother-in-lawโ or โsister-in-law.โ
- Marriages between parallel cousins are generally considered taboo, while cross-cousin marriages are accepted in many cultures.
Who are Parallel Cousins?
Parallel cousins come from the same-sex siblings of oneโs parents. This includes the children of a fatherโs brother (paternal uncle) or a motherโs sister (maternal aunt). In kinship terminologies, male parallel cousins are often called โbrothersโ and female parallel cousins are called โsisters.โ Most societies regard marriages between parallel cousins as incest taboos since they are considered similar to oneโs own siblings. However, some pastoral communities allow marriages between parallel cousins, believing that such unions help keep family properties within a lineage.
Who are Cross Cousins?
Cross cousins are the children of oneโs parentsโ opposite-sex siblings. This includes the children of a fatherโs sister (paternal aunt) or a motherโs brother (maternal uncle). In kinship terminologies, male cross cousins are referred to as โbrother-in-lawโ and female cross cousins are called โsister-in-law.โ Despite the taboo surrounding parallel cousin marriages, many cultures encourage cross-cousin marriages as a way to keep family properties within the family unit. However, modern times have seen a decrease in support for cross-cousin marriages due to the potential spread of genetic diseases to offspring.
What is the difference between Parallel and Cross Cousins?
Both parallel and cross cousins are consanguine relatives, and one can have these types of cousins from both the motherโs and fatherโs sides of the family. The primary differences between parallel and cross cousins are:
- Parallel cousins come from parentsโ same-sex siblings, while cross cousins come from parentsโ opposite-sex siblings.
- Parallel cousins are typically referred to as brothers and sisters, while cross cousins are known as brother-in-law and sister-in-law.
- Marriages between parallel cousins are largely considered incest taboos, while cross-cousin marriages are generally accepted.
