An analysis of early marriage in Pakhtun society: determinants, consequences, and interventions

Abstract

Marriage  is  a  ubiquitous  social  institution  created  to  govern  and  oversee  human existence.  It  is  the  sanctioned  societal  arrangement  in  which  two  or  more individuals   form   a   family.   Nevertheless,   marriages   that   take   place   through unnatural  means  or  that  infringe  upon  fundamental  human  rights  give  rise  to  significant social issues with complex ramifications. The present study examines the several factors and outcomes associated with early marriage in the Pakhtun society. The research was conducted in differentareas  of Kohat  Districtlocated  in  Khyber  Pakhtunkhwa,  Pakistan. The researchers gathered primary datafrom a sample of 60 individuals, consisting of both males and  females.  The  data  was  acquired  through  face-to-face  interviews  using  a  questionnaire. The data  was  then  analyzed  using  SPSS  software,  utilizing  frequency  distribution  and percentages.The analyses indicate that early marriage is prevalent as a result of low levels of education, deeply ingrained traditional social norms, and economic security measures. These factors have significant negative consequences in terms of social, physical, and mental well-being  for  both  the  individual,  their  family,  and  society  as  a  whole.  Parental  education, government  intervention,  and  media  influence  are  suggested  as  effective  measures  to eradicate the detrimental effects of early marriages.