Parents Need To Take Control To Protect Children From The Risk Of Early Marriage

Illustration of early marriage (Freepic)

JAKARTA - Early marriage can have various negative impacts, both physically, psychologically and socially. Children who marry are too young tend not to be emotionally and mentally prepared to face the demands of marriage, thus risking domestic conflicts, mental stress, and domestic violence.

In addition, they are also more prone to dropping out of school and economic difficulties, which in the end can affect their quality of life in the long term.

Responding to this, Phoebe Ramadina, M.Psi., a psychologist, a clinical psychologist who graduated from the University of Indonesia, emphasized that parents have a very important role in preventing early marriage.

Phoebe explained that parents need to instill an understanding in their children that marriage is not only about emotional readiness, but also requires psychological maturity and financial readiness.

Furthermore, he suggested that parents build open, empathetic, and supportive communication. That way, children will feel safe to share problems, including when facing social pressure or when they want to make big decisions, such as getting married.

"Healthy communication allows parents to provide wise views and input, so that children can consider everything carefully before making important decisions in their lives," Phoebe said, as quoted by ANTARA.

He also highlighted the importance of education regarding reproductive health that is adjusted to the age of children. According to him, this information is very important so that children can protect themselves and avoid unwanted risks.

"Often, early marriage is used as a way out of an unplanned pregnancy. In fact, situations like this can actually be prevented with proper sexual education, starting from the family environment," he explained.

Phoebe also encourages parents not to hesitate to seek professional help, such as family counseling or psychological services, especially if they see signs that children want to marry impulsively.

"The family does not need to feel the need to solve this problem alone," he said.

Through the support of professionals, the family can strengthen its role as a major support system in children's development.

"With an educational, supportive, and cooperative approach between family members, the role of parents can be a major bulwark in efforts to prevent early marriage," Phoebe concluded.