THE FACTORS INFLUENCING CHILD MARRIAGE IN ETHNIC MINORITY AREAS

Abstract

Child marriage is a difficult issue to solve in the ethnic minority areas due to many complex causes. This study examined the influence of education and harmful gender norms and ethnic customs on child marriage in three areas in Viet Nam. Using both quantitative and qualitative research methods, the results showed a strong and prominent association between education and child marriage of ethnic minority women and men. Specifically, lower educational attainment is associated with a younger age at first marriage, particularly among females and the Hmong. The research findings confirmed the role of education as the most significant factor in delaying the age of marriage for girls. The practical implication is that improving educational opportunities for ethnic minority children will enhance their awareness of child marriage.