Page 56 - GHES-2-3

Global Health Economics and
Sustainability
Health consequences of child marriage among rural women

and their rights to healthcare. This approach aligns with inherent in social work practice. Social workers engaging
the profession’s commitment to enhancing individual and in interventions related to child marriage must adhere to
community well-being (International Federation of Social ethical principles such as cultural competence, informed
Work, 2014). consent, and the promotion of self-determination (NASW,
2015). Respecting the autonomy and agency of young girls
The study’s insights into the mental health outcomes
associated with child marriage illuminate the critical is paramount, ensuring that interventions are culturally
sensitive and empowering rather than coercive.
need for mental health interventions informed by cultural
competence and sensitivity. Anxiety, depression, and Moreover, social workers must navigate the potential
PTSD are prevalent among young girls, highlighting power imbalances inherent in community-based
the intersectionality of mental health challenges and interventions. Collaborative and participatory approaches,
sociocultural factors (Burgess et al., 2022). Social workers, involving the community in decision-making processes,
equipped with an understanding of cultural nuances, align with ethical principles of social justice and inclusivity
can play a pivotal role in addressing the mental health (International Federation of Social Workers, 2014).
needs of young girls. Culturally competent counseling Ensuring that interventions prioritize the well-being and
services, community-based support groups, and awareness dignity of young girls is central to ethical social work
campaigns can destigmatize mental health issues and practice.
provide a safe space for these women to seek help (Chow 4.2. Study limitation
et al., 2021). Integrating mental health education into
existing community programs aligns with the social The study is limited to only women who married before
work principle of holistic and person-centered care, the age of 18. As a result, it did not capture the views of
acknowledging the interconnectedness of mental health other women who married at the age of 18 years and above
with broader societal factors (Salim & Lombard, 2020). who may have similar or different experiences. Future
research could explore this demographic to gain a more
The reproductive health implications of child marriage comprehensive understanding of early marriage, not
highlight the socioeconomic barriers that young girls necessarily classified as child marriage as in the present
face in accessing essential health-care services. Limited study. Despite this limitation, the study provided valuable
resources, economic constraints, and societal expectations insights into the health consequences of child marriage.
contribute to adverse birth outcomes and obstetric
complications (UNICEF, 2021). Social work interventions 4.3. Recommendations
must address these barriers comprehensively, recognizing Based on the study findings, the authors recommend the
that reproductive health is not solely a medical concern but following actions:
a social and economic one.
1. Enhancing access to comprehensive reproductive
Implementing community-driven reproductive health health services: it is imperative for the government to
clinics, as suggested by the participants, aligns with the develop and implement programs aimed at providing
social work principle of community engagement and rural women, particularly those who experienced child
empowerment (Salim & Lombard, 2020). Social workers marriage, with increased access to comprehensive
can collaborate with local leaders to advocate for policies reproductive health services. These services
that prioritize reproductive health services, ensuring their encompass family planning, prenatal, antenatal, and
accessibility and affordability. Furthermore, financial postnatal care, and education on reproductive health.
support programs can alleviate the economic burden on 2. Establishment of mental health support programs:
young girls and their families, promoting equitable access non-governmental organizations are encouraged to
to essential reproductive health-care services. establish community-based mental health support
programs tailored for women who have undergone
Furthermore, the study prompts social work scholars child marriage. These programs should prioritize
to critically examine the effectiveness of existing providing counseling services, raising awareness about
interventions and policies in addressing the health mental health, and reducing the stigma associated
consequences of child marriage. By adopting a research- with seeking mental health support. Counseling as
informed approach, social work academics can contribute a primary means of psychological support can serve
to the knowledge base, refining intervention strategies and as a therapeutic avenue for women to express their
policy recommendations for optimal impact.
experiences, cope with trauma, and navigate the
The study’s focus on vulnerable populations, such challenges associated with child marriage.
as young girls, underscores the ethical considerations 3. Implementation of educational initiatives on early

Volume 2 Issue 3 (2024) 9 https://doi.org/10.36922/ghes.2840