Breaking the Silence: Inside the Hidden World of Child Marriage in the United States
For some individuals, child marriage is a result of cultural or religious beliefs that prioritize the idea of marriage at a young age. This can lead to individuals being forced into marriages against their will, often to much older partners. The power dynamics in these relationships can be extremely unequal, leading to issues of abuse and control.
The impact of child marriage on mental health can be significant. Individuals who have experienced child marriage may struggle with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. They may have difficulty forming healthy relationships or trusting others. The trauma of a forced marriage can have a lasting effect on an individual’s sense of self-worth and identity.
Child marriage can also have a negative impact on a person’s education and career opportunities. Many individuals who have experienced child marriage are forced to drop out of school in order to fulfill their marital duties. This can lead to a lifetime of economic insecurity and limited opportunities for personal and professional growth.
It is important for society to recognize the lived experience of child marriage and to work towards ending this harmful practice. By providing support and resources for individuals who have experienced child marriage, we can help them heal and move forward with their lives. Child marriage is a violation of human rights and it is crucial that we work towards creating a world where every individual has the right to make choices about their own lives.
Human right activist
Nada Foundation
