Child Marriage in High-risk Rural Areas: Exploring Risk Factors and Implications for Adolescent Reproductive Health

Introduction: Child marriage is a significant problem in high-risk rural communities, driven by social pressures, cultural norms, and restricted educational opportunities. This study investigates the risk factors that contribute to child marriage and examines its impact on the reproductive health of adolescents. The research underscores the critical need for focused interventions to address these issues and improve the well-being of adolescents in vulnerable communities. Materials and methods: By analyzing recent data and conducting interviews with affected individuals, the study provides a comprehensive understanding of the underlying factors and their consequences. The study focused on 608 youths from Tambakrejo District, Bojonegoro, who were married as minors in 2022. Using a simple random selection method, a sample of 86 participants was chosen, comprising 40 cases and 46 controls. The data were analyzed using chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression to identify significant risk factors. Results: This revealed that parental wishes, self-desire, school dropout, parental income, and social pressures play a crucial role in influencing child marriage. These findings highlight the complex interplay of individual, familial, and societal factors in perpetuating this practice. Conclusion: The study concludes with recommendations for preventive health promotion initiatives, emphasizing the importance of education and counselling. These initiatives should focus on providing parents and families with in-depth education about the detrimental effects of child marriage and the risks associated with adolescent pregnancy. Such efforts are essential to curbing the prevalence of child marriage and protecting the reproductive health of adolescents in high-risk rural areas.