A study on the behavioral practices and gender perspectives related to child marriage among adolescents in the districts of Shravasti and Balrampur, Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

This study analyzes the behavioral practices and gender perspectives related to child marriage among adolescents in the districts of Shrawasti and Balrampur,
Uttar Pradesh. The study reveals that child marriage is not merely a legal issue but a complex social problem deeply intertwined with social, economic, cultural,
and traditional beliefs. According to the present study, the prevalence of child marriage is higher in Shrawasti, where 60% of adolescents were found to be involved
in this practice, whereas in Balrampur, it was only 40%. This difference primarily reflects the influence of social, economic, and cultural factors. In Shrawasti,
strong traditional customs and the rural environment contribute to the higher persistence of child marriage, while in Balrampur, increased education, awareness,
and changes in social attitudes have led to a relatively lower prevalence. The study also highlights that gender perspectives play a significant role in child marriage.
Data indicates that girls are more encouraged to marry early, while boys face less pressure. This is a result of the patriarchal social structure and traditional beliefs,
where girls are often viewed as family responsibilities or burdens, whereas boys are given greater importance regarding education, employment, and independence.
This unequal approach clearly manifests gender inequality and discrimination in society. The pressure of early marriage on girls negatively affects their educational
opportunities, mental development, health, and self-confidence, limiting their potential for social empowerment. The study also measured the impact of education
and awareness. Results show that adolescents and families with higher education and awareness exhibit lower tendencies toward child marriage. Higher education
not only enhances understanding of legal and social norms but also develops critical thinking, decision-making independence, and social consciousness. Conversely,
groups with lower education and awareness showed higher prevalence of child marriage. Therefore, education and awareness emerge as effective strategies to
prevent child marriage, sensitizing adolescents to the importance of their rights, health, and safety. The study’s findings provide important guidance for policymaking and social interventions. Preventing child marriage requires more than just legal enforcement; it necessitates spreading awareness in the community,
improving education levels, conducting training and workshops, and influencing adolescents and families through media and social campaigns. Strategies to change
child marriage practices should consider social beliefs, economic insecurity, and traditional customs. Ultimately, this research highlights the social, educational,
and gender dimensions of child marriage, demonstrating that education, awareness, and social interventions can bring positive changes in adolescents’ lives. The
study provides concrete guidance to policymakers, teachers, and social organizations for reducing the prevalence of child marriage in districts like Shrawasti and
Balrampur, thereby promoting the protection of adolescent rights, gender equality, and social empowerment. Preventing child marriage is, therefore, not merely a
legal or administrative task but a comprehensive need for social reform.