Role of social norms on early child marriage decisions among the parents of married and unmarried adolescent girls: Findings from a matched study in Bangladesh

Despite widespread recognition of social norms' influence on child marriage (CM), little is known about how to measure the most influential norms in parental CM decisions. Because of their pivotal role in marriage decision-making, measuring social norms among parents is a critical step to address CM through effective intervention. Guided by social norm theory and contextual attitude scale, this study examines the role of parental norms in CM decisions, aiming to inform policies and programs to address CM in Bangladesh. Data came from a cross-sectional matched study in Khulna Division, Bangladesh, with parents of unmarried (n = 127) and married (n = 127) adolescent girls. We developed several indices reflecting social norms, prudential reasons, combined norms and prudential reasons, and attitudes, based on social norm theory. We performed chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses to identify the role of social norms influencing CM decisions. Chi-square tests revealed that parents of married girls were more likely to agree with items across all measures. Adjusted logistic regression showed the strongest association with CM for the combined norms and prudential reasons index (aOR = 3.15; 95% CI: 1.84–5.37), followed by attitudes (aOR = 2.78; 95% CI: 1.85–4.18), and prudential reasons (aOR = 2.62; 95% CI: 1.75–3.91). The association was not significant with the social norms index. Item-wise regression models showed that parents of married adolescent girls were more likely to agree on two prudential reasons items and several attitude items related to sexuality, agency, violence, and religious beliefs. CM decisions are shaped by a complex interplay of social norms, prudential reasons, and attitudes. Effective interventions must address these interlinked drivers to disrupt the cycle of CM. • Child marriage (under 18 years) remains a persistent issue in Bangladesh. • Social norms, expectations, beliefs, and attitudes drive child marriage of girls. • Parents believed early marriage provides security, and help prevent sexual violence. • Parents thought marrying after 18 years might increase the required amount of dowry.