REASONS FOR EARLY MARRIAGE IN ADOLESCENT GIRLS IN TEMBILAHAN, RIAU

Abstract

ABSTRACT  

Globally, more than 700 million women married at an early age. Early marriage, which is defined as marriage aged 16 years or less, has been estimated to occur in 13% of adolescent girls. Some studies reported that early marriage has adverse effects on reproductive health of adolescent girls. This study aims to explore the factors that cause early marriage in adolescent girls in Tembilahan, Riau. A qualitative study with a phenomenological approach has been used to answer the research question. The data collection used purposive sampling. Ten participants have involved in in-depth interviews. Pre-marital sex, reproductive health, environment, and parents' role contributed to adolescent girls' decision to marry early. Marriage is the right of every human being. However, its decision needs to be considered carefully based on adolescent girls' physical and psychological readiness. A marriage that occurs because of compulsion may harm married life. The government needs to collaborate with various parties to educate the public about the importance of marriage readiness.

Keyword : Early marriage, pre-marital sex, reproductive health, parenting, environment, adolescent girls