Suffering in Silence: Psychological and Social Experiences of Survivors of Child Marriage in the North East Region of Ghana

The study explored psychological and social experiences and coping strategies of survivors of child marriage in north east region. The study adopted a qualitative research approach underpinned by descriptive phenomenological research design. Data was collected using face-to-face interview that explored psychological and social experiences, and the coping strategies. Purposive and snowballing techniques were employed to sample 21 child marriage survivors aged 12–17 years who voluntarily consented to participate in the study. The study found that most child marriage survivors experienced depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. The study also found that a substantial number of child marriage survivors suffer from social stigma, alienation from families, peers and friends, and divorce. Finally, it emerged from the study that most survivors of child marriage use support from families, friends and community, engage in religious or spiritual practices, and reframe their experiences and focus on personal growth or future opportunities. The study recommends individual counselling and psychoeducation, with a focus on mental health support, legal protections, education, and community sensitisation programmes to boost self-concept and self-esteem of survivors. It was further recommended that social welfare, Action Aid Ghana and “Sontaagba”, to promote legal reforms to promote reintegration, reduce stigma, and promote entrepreneurship. The study further recommends that there should be skill development training workshops in soap and beads making, and weaving to provide long-term financial empowerment. The findings highlight the need for tailored interventions to address child marriage and promote well-being of the girl-child. Future research should explore culture norms that promote child marriage.