Perceived Benefits and Harms of Child Marriage among Hausa Communities in Southwestern Nigeria: Views through the Lens of the Theoretical Domains Framework

• O Omobowale

• H. Olaniyan

Child marriage is a pervasive global health challenge driven by predominant beliefs and sociocultural norms. This study explored perceived benefits and harms of child marriage among Hausa communities in Ibadan, Nigeria, using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). Through qualitative interviews (5 Focus Group Discussions and 5 Key Informant Interviews) with 42 purposively selected key stakeholders (community leaders, religious leaders, women leaders, married girls <18, and adult men/women participants), we identified influences across ten TDF domains. Data was analysed using Atlas TI to inductively select codes and themes. Perceived benefits included early family completion, religious fulfilment, and prestige, while harms include health complications, mental health issues, and social stigma. The theoretical domains influencing these perceptions include beliefs about consequences, social influences, environmental context, and social/professional identity. Parents were identified as primary decision-makers, influenced by cultural and socioeconomic factors to act within these domains. To address child marriage among affected communities in Nigeria, targeted interventions across various levels of the theoretical domain framework are needed to shift perceptions and support for child marriage among key stakeholders. Interventions should target social, cultural, and parental decision-making influences to reduce child marriage prevalence

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