Experiences of “child brides” in selected Bulsa communities of upper east region, Ghana

Abstract

This study explored the lived experiences of females who married before the age of 18. The study was carried out at Wiaga, Siniesi, and Dogninga in the Bulsa North and South Districts of Ghana's Upper East Region. The study investigated child brides' lived experiences and coping techniques, variables that impact child marriage, and approaches to alleviate the practise of child marriage among the Bulsas. The study was founded on the interpretative paradigm and phenomenological design in qualitative research to investigate the dynamics of child brides' experiences. The snowball sampling approach was used to pick 14 participants for the study. Data was gathered through interviews, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions with child brides, the headmaster, the circuit supervisor, and Queen's mother and anlaysed using thematic analysis. The findings indicated repeating themes related to cultural, economic, and social aspects of the Bulsa practise. The study also revealed that despite the genuine experience of child brides being one of beating and victimisation, the victims have been conditioned to remain silent in order to save their husbands from being detained by law enforcement. Child brides face challenges including psychological, emotional, physiological, physical, and sexual abuse. The study reveals that child marriage is a big issue in the areas of investigation. To address the issue, deliberate educational/awareness initiatives by headteachers and opinion leaders’ activities should be implemented. This will be complemented with coaching and therapy in order to encourage females to speak up when required, as recommended by the study.