SURVEY ON SOCIETAL BELIEVE ON EARLY MARRIAGE IN NIGERIA (A CASE STUDY OF NINGI)
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style: Available
- Recommended for : Student Researchers
- NGN 3000
CHAPTER ONE:
INTRODUCTION
Background of the study
In most societies, marriage marks the point in a woman’s life when childbearing first becomes socially acceptable. Women who marry early will, on average, have longer exposure to pregnancy and a greater number of lifetime births. Marriage is a social activity entered into through a public act, religious or traditional ceremony and it reflects the purpose, character, and customs of the society in which it is found [Kendall, 2016]. It unites people in a special form of mutual dependence for the purpose of founding and maintaining a family. Many societies have norms that limit the age of young girls to enter into marriage, but in some cases the age limit does not take into consideration their physiological and psychological readiness for childbearing [Lewis, 2016]. In most societies, marriage marks the point in a woman’s life when childbearing first becomes socially acceptable. Women who marry early will, on average, have longer exposure to pregnancy and a greater number of lifetime births. Marriage is a social activity entered into through a public act, religious or traditional ceremony and it reflects the purpose, character, and customs of the society in which it is found[Lyold, 2019]. It unites people in a special form of mutual dependence for the purpose of founding and maintaining a family. Many societies have norms that limit the age of young girls to enter into marriage, but in some cases the age limit does not take into consideration their physiological and psychological readiness for childbearing [Mathur, 2013] . Within the context of Ningi LGA, early marriage remains a deeply ingrained socio-cultural phenomenon, influenced by a myriad of factors including poverty, lack of educational opportunities, gender inequality, and traditional beliefs. While precise statistics on the prevalence of early marriage in Ningi LGA may be limited, anecdotal evidence and existing research suggest that it remains a widespread practice, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Despite concerted efforts by governmental and non-governmental organizations to address the issue of early marriage nationwide, the effectiveness of interventions in specific localities such as Ningi LGA may vary due to contextual factors and community-specific beliefs. Therefore, there is a pressing need for localized research that delves into the societal beliefs, attitudes, and perceptions surrounding early marriage within this particular region. By understanding the socio-cultural context in which early marriage occurs in Ningi LGA, policymakers, advocates, and stakeholders can develop more targeted and effective strategies to combat the practice (Mavis, 2019). Additionally, insights gained from such research can inform the design of programs that empower young girls, promote education, and challenge harmful gender norms, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of advancing gender equality and social justice within Nigerian society. Therefore, the researcher sought to Survey on societal believe on early marriage in Nigeria (A case study of Ningi LGA, Bauchi state).
1.2 Statement of the problem
Early marriage remains a prevalent socio-cultural phenomenon in Nigeria, particularly in rural communities such as Ningi Local Government Area (LGA) in Bauchi State. Despite efforts towards modernization and awareness campaigns, the practice persists, raising concerns about its implications on individuals, families, and society at large (Eze, 2018). However, there is a dearth of comprehensive understanding regarding societal beliefs surrounding early marriage in this specific region. There is a lack of in-depth exploration into the societal beliefs, attitudes, and perceptions regarding early marriage within the context of Ningi LGA, Bauchi State. Existing studies have often provided generalized insights on early marriage in Nigeria, neglecting the nuances and specific factors that influence perceptions within this locality. The prevalence of early marriage in Ningi LGA suggests the presence of deep-rooted socio-cultural norms, traditions, and practices that endorse or perpetuate this phenomenon. Understanding these influences is crucial for developing effective interventions and policies aimed at addressing the issue. Similarly, early marriage can have far-reaching consequences on the lives of individuals, particularly girls, including limited access to education, health risks, economic dependency, and reduced opportunities for personal development (Eneke, 2014). Moreover, it can perpetuate cycles of poverty and reinforce gender inequalities within society. However, the extent to which these consequences are perceived and acknowledged by the community in Ningi LGA remains unclear. Identifying the prevailing societal beliefs and attitudes towards early marriage is essential for devising culturally sensitive and context-specific interventions. By understanding the perspectives of community members, policymakers, and stakeholders, it becomes possible to develop strategies that promote alternative pathways for young girls and advocate for the rights of individuals affected by early marriage(Ifedi, 2016). Overall, there is a critical need to investigate the societal beliefs surrounding early marriage in Ningi LGA, Bauchi State, to inform targeted interventions, policies, and advocacy efforts aimed at addressing this complex social issue and promoting the well-being and rights of individuals, particularly young girls, within the community. Hence, the study Survey on societal believe on early marriage in Nigeria (A case study of Ningi LGA, Bauchi state).
1.3 Objective of the study
Generally, the study survey on societal believe on early marriage in Nigeria (A case study of Ningi LGA, Bauchi state). The specific objectives is as follows
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To assess the prevalence of early marriage in Ningi LGA, Bauchi State.
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To identify the factors contributing to the prevalence of early marriage in Ningi LGA, Bauchi State
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To investigate the societal beliefs that contribute to the perpetuation of early marriage in Ningi LGA, Nigeria
1.4 Research Questions
The following questions have been prepared to guide the study
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What is the prevalence of early marriage in Ningi LGA, Bauchi State.
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What are the factors contributing to the prevalence of early marriage in Ningi LGA, Bauchi State?
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What are the societal beliefs that contribute to the perpetuation of early marriage in Ningi LGA, Nigeria?
1.5 Research hypotheses
The hypotheses have been formulated to further guide the study
H0: Societal beliefs do not contribute to the perpetuation of early marriage in Ningi LGA, Nigeria
Ha: Societal beliefs contribute to the perpetuation of early marriage in Ningi LGA, Nigeria.
1.6 Significance of the study
The study will be significant to the following
Policymakers: The findings of this study can inform the development of evidence-based policies and interventions aimed at addressing early marriage in Nigeria, particularly within Ningi LGA and similar rural communities. Policymakers, governmental agencies, and non-governmental organizations can utilize the research outcomes to design targeted initiatives that promote gender equality, protect the rights of adolescents, and mitigate the socio-economic impacts of early marriage.
Contribution to Knowledge: This study will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on early marriage in Nigeria by providing localized insights into the societal beliefs, attitudes, and practices surrounding the phenomenon within Ningi Local Government Area (LGA), Bauchi State. By filling this knowledge gap, the study enhances our understanding of the complexities associated with early marriage and its implications for individuals and communities in a specific cultural context.
1.7 Scope of the study
The study survey societal believe on early marriage in Nigeria (A case study of Ningi LGA, Bauchi state). Hence, the study will assess the prevalence of early marriage in Ningi LGA, Bauchi State, identify the factors contributing to the prevalence of early marriage in Ningi LGA, Bauchi State and investigate the societal beliefs that contribute to the perpetuation of early marriage in Ningi LGA, Nigeria. Therefore, the study is delimited to Ningi LGA, Bauchi State.
1.8 Limitation of the study
Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. The significant constraint are:
Time: The researcher encountered time constraint as the researcher had to carry out this research along side other academic activities such as attending lectures and other educational activities required of her.
Finance: The researcher incurred more financial expenses in carrying out this study such as typesetting, printing, sourcing for relevant materials, literature, or information and in the data collection process.
Availability of Materials: The researcher encountered challenges in sourcing for literature in this study. The scarcity of literature on the subject due to the nature of the discourse was a limitation to this study.
1.9 Definition of terms
Early Marriage: Refers to the practice of marrying individuals, particularly adolescents, before reaching the legal age of marriage, which is 18 years old in Nigeria. Early marriage may also be referred to as child marriage when one or both parties are below the age of 18.
Societal Beliefs: Refers to the collective attitudes, values, norms, and perceptions held by members of a society regarding various social phenomena, including marriage, gender roles, and family structures.
Gender Inequality: Refers to the unequal treatment, opportunities, and resources allocated to individuals based on their gender. Gender inequality often manifests in various aspects of society, including education, employment, health care, and decision-making processes.
Socio-Cultural Influences: Refers to the societal and cultural factors that shape individuals' behaviors, beliefs, and practices. These influences may include traditions, customs, religious teachings, socio-economic conditions, and historical legacies that impact social norms and behaviors within a community.
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