Risks of early marriage

On 28 April 2022, the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) Act 2022 became law in England and Wales. This law changed the minimum age for marriage or forming a civil partnership from 16 to 18. Before this, young people aged 16 or 17 could marry with parental consent, but the new law no longer allows this. This change was made to protect young people from the risks of marrying too early.

Marrying at a young age can create many dangers, both for the individuals involved and for society as a whole. Let’s explore some of the main reasons why getting married at an earlier age can be harmful.

Emotional Immaturity

At 16 or 17, most teenagers are still growing emotionally and mentally. Marriage is a huge responsibility that requires maturity, communication, and the ability to handle stress. At a young age, people may not yet have the emotional skills to manage the complexities of a marriage. This can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed, frustration, and misunderstanding between partners. As a result, marriages that start early have a higher chance of ending in divorce.

Limited Life Experience

Teenagers who marry early may not have had enough time to experience life as individuals. They may miss out on important opportunities, such as further education, developing their careers, or even personal growth. A lack of life experience can also make it harder to make informed decisions about important issues like finances, raising children, and building a stable relationship. Without these experiences, they may struggle to navigate the challenges of adult life.

Risk of Coercion

Young people are more vulnerable to being pressured or coerced into marriage, especially if they feel they are doing it to please their family or to escape a difficult situation. Parental or societal pressure can push someone into marriage before they are ready. This is a form of exploitation, and it can lead to serious problems, including emotional abuse and control within the marriage. By raising the minimum marriage age to 18, the new law helps protect young people from these risks.

Impact on Education and Future Prospects

Getting married at a young age often disrupts education. When someone is focused on managing a household, caring for a spouse, or even raising children, it can become difficult to continue with school or college. This interruption in education can limit future job prospects and financial independence. Over time, this can cause stress and resentment, especially if one partner feels like their opportunities were taken away too soon.

Health Risks

For those who marry early and begin having children at a young age, there can be serious health risks. Teenage pregnancies carry higher risks of complications for both the mother and the baby. Young parents may also struggle with the physical and emotional demands of raising a child, adding additional pressure to an already fragile situation.

Conclusion

The decision to raise the minimum age for marriage and civil partnerships to 18 in England and Wales is a step toward protecting young people from the many risks of marrying too early. By giving young people more time to grow, gain life experience, and make informed choices, the law helps to ensure healthier and more stable relationships in the future.