Understanding the Role of Patriarchy in Perpetuating Child Marriages in Pakistan: A Qualitative Exploration

Abstract

This study investigates the means in which patriarchal structures influences child marriage practices in Pakistan and comprehend how gender-based power dynamics contribute to the continuation of this problem. Pakistan is one of the top six nations in the world for child marriages, which poses a serious societal issue with detrimental effects on the education and development of females. Social scientists, religious scholars, medical professionals, and people from the community participated in Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and interviews as part of the study's qualitative research design. Thematic analysis was used to examine the data. The study showed that child marriages are perpetuated by oppression based on gender and hierarchical social structures. A recurring topic that strengthened patriarchal beliefs was son preference. The idea of "patriarchy derived from matriarchy," in which mothers unintentionally perpetuate traditional gender norms, was a novel discovery. Implement community-based programs that address patriarchal beliefs and empower women, especially mothers, to challenge traditional practices.