The Effects of Early Marriage From Married Girls' Perspective in West Bellessa, Central Gondar, Amhara Region, Ethiopia

ABSTRACT This study investigated the effects of early marriage on young girls in West Bellessa, Central Gondar, in the Amhara region of Ethiopia, focusing on their lived experiences. The research aimed to examine the challenges faced by married girls and explore the cultural factors perpetuating early marriage. A qualitative approach with a phenomenological design was employed, using purposive sampling to select 15 married girls and four key informants. Data were collected through in‐depth interviews and key informant interviews and then analyzed thematically after inductive coding. The findings revealed that many girls were forced into marriage due to cultural beliefs that unmarried girls over a certain age would tarnish family honor, particularly concerning virginity. The study also found that these girls experienced depression, anxiety, health complications, social isolation, discrimination, and gender‐based violence. These challenges were exacerbated by low educational attainments, limited access to resources, and deeply entrenched cultural norms. The study concludes that addressing early marriage requires a comprehensive strategy involving community awareness campaigns, policy reforms, improved access to education, and support services to empower girls and eradicate harmful traditional practices.