Cousin marriage refers to the practice of marrying a cousin, which can be either a first cousin or a more distant relative. This practice is common in various cultures around the world and is often influenced by social, economic, and familial factors. In some societies, cousin marriage is encouraged to strengthen family ties and maintain wealth within the family. The legality and acceptance of cousin marriage vary significantly across different countries and regions. In some places, such as parts of the Middle East and South Asia, it is widely accepted, while in others, like many areas in North America and Europe, it may be restricted or frowned upon due to concerns about genetic risks for offspring.