by Rebecca Costanza, Opinion Editor
Every year, girls are married before the age of 18. Getting married at an early age endangers a girl’s personal development and wellbeing. Child marriage is a human right’s violation, and should be put to an end to improve the lives of these devastated children.
Child marriage usually occurs in poor neighborhoods. It happens when the child is separated from her peers or even pulled out of school. A girl who is married this young is more prone to domestic violence and more likely to be sexually assaulted. Based on the International Center for Research on Women child brides show symptoms of sexual abuse and posttraumatic stress feelings such as depression and hopelessness.
“Child marriage should not be allowed under any circumstances. I think it’s disgusting and not only can a child be physically harmed in the relationship but also emotionally,” junior Kaila Morell said.
Women who are married before the age of 18 have their spouses selected by their families. These girls who were married as children have less decision making power than those whose marriage is delayed until adulthood. Women who experience child marriage often allow their spouses to have the final say on anything regarding making a decision.
“Getting married at a young age is not appropriate. Since you’re a child, you have no say. You have no voice or opinion and you’re going to be overpowered in the relationship,” senior Marcella Arcabascio said.
On the other hand, child marriage is viewed as a custom. It has a harmful effect on a child’s health, but it is a common practice which is accepted by the members of a community.
There should be a more effective enforcement of existing laws that condemn child marriage. Girls in this type of relationship are more likely to be victims of domestic violence, and are usually inferior to their spouse. Although getting married at a young age is a custom in some communities, it is affecting children in a negative manner. The lives of these underage girls who are getting married should be improved if communities can just work together to raise awareness of the harmful consequences of child marriage.
