Phenomenological Exploration of the Causes of Polygamous Marriages in District Battagram of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to conduct an empirical investigation of contributing factors of polygamous marriages in District Battagram of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province of Pakistan. Qualitative research paradigm was used wherein data was collected from 32 male and female participants having polygamous marriage. The study findings, which were based on a thematic analysis of the data gathered, indicate that polygamous marriages are practiced situations such infertility, love marriages, family pressure, and financial considerations. Numerous participants observed that disputes and strife inside the household, especially between co-wives, frequently resulted in the choice to remarry. Tension was frequently caused by arguments over the husband's resources, affection, and attention. However, sharing household chores was noticed as a possible advantage of polygamous marriages by a few respondents. Respondents reported a decrease in personal workload and a sense of shared responsibility in homes with many spouses who assisted with daily household chores. It is suggested that the government make laws permitting polygamy in specific situations. These laws ought to make sure that polygamous unions are controlled to safeguard the rights of all parties, especially spouses and children. Furthermore, there is an urgent need to educate society on the intricacies and consequences of polygamous marriages to lessen the detrimental effects of polygamy.