Association Between Early Marriage and Domestic Violence Among Women in Afghanistan: A Quantitative Study from Bamyan Province

Abstract This study explores the factors influencing domestic violence (DV) among women in Bamyan, Afghanistan, with a particular focus on the impact of early marriage. Data were collected through a survey of 356 women aged 15–49 from 24 villages in Bamyan, covering a total population of 15,054. The study employs logistic regression and chi-square tests to analyze the data. Findings indicate a strong association between early marriage and an increased likelihood of experiencing emotional, physical, and sexual violence. Protective factors such as higher education, greater autonomy, and negative attitudes toward wife beating significantly reduce the odds of DV. However, higher education levels among husbands were linked to increased odds of emotional and overall domestic violence, highlighting that education alone may not challenge deep-seated gender norms. The results call for comprehensive interventions to delay marriage, enhance women’s autonomy, and address societal attitudes toward gender and violence, aiming to create a safer and more equitable environment for women in Bamyan.