The practice of early marriage remains quite common in Indonesia. In fact, marriage involving children under the age of 18 is a very serious issue, as it carries various risks from multiple aspects, including health, psychological, and sociological perspectives.

The National Population and Family Planning Agency (BKKBN) states that the ideal age for marriage is 21 years for women and 25 years for men. Marriages conducted below this age are considered premature because individuals are not yet physically and mentally mature. Their reproductive organs are still developing, and their emotional readiness is often insufficient.

The Impact of Early Marriage

If early marriage is not addressed promptly, its consequences will become increasingly complex, affecting humanitarian, health, economic, and social aspects.

“Indonesian children are the future generation of this nation. If they grow up with poor health, genetic defects, unstable emotions, and inadequate education, the burden we face in the future will be much greater,” said Eko Sumurat.

This concern is supported by Dr. Jimmi MP Aritonang, Sp.KJ, a psychiatrist at OMNI Hospitals Pulomas, Jakarta. He explained that psychologically, child marriage can lead to trauma, low self-confidence, and immature emotional development.

“Individuals tend to become withdrawn, easily angered, hopeless, and prone to self-pity. This happens because they are not mentally prepared to become a spouse, a sexual partner, or a parent,” Dr. Jimmi stated.

Psychological and Cognitive Risks of Early Marriage

Early marriage may also result in cognitive impairments, such as difficulty making decisions, poor problem-solving skills, and memory disturbances.

“Dominance by an older partner increases the risk of inequality, domestic violence, and divorce. Additionally, social pressure and public judgment can cause young spouses to feel stressed and withdraw from social activities. This leads to reduced productivity and limited opportunities to continue education,” Dr. Jimmi explained.

Biological and Reproductive Health Risks

From a biological perspective, early marriage—especially when teenage girls become pregnant and give birth—significantly increases the risk of postpartum mental health disorders, such as baby blues syndrome. These conditions are often triggered by hormonal changes, fatigue, psychological pressure, and lack of adequate support during childbirth.

This statement is reinforced by Dr. Yosef Fransiscus, Health Claim Senior Manager at Sequis. He emphasized that children are not physically mature enough to engage in sexual activity, pregnancy, or childbirth.

“Early marriage often involves power imbalance, where the younger partner may be afraid to request contraceptive use. Sexual activity at a young age, especially when forced and without adequate reproductive health knowledge, increases the risk of reproductive organ damage. Long-term effects include loss of orgasm ability and impaired ovulation or fertility,” Yosef explained.

Mental Health Risks for Mothers and Children

Mental health problems experienced by young mothers also affect the children they give birth to. According to Dr. Jimmi, children born from early marriages are at higher risk of mental disorders, such as Down syndrome, and may face various health, emotional, and social problems compared to children born from mature and stable marriages.

From a medical standpoint, congenital defects may also occur.
“For example, spina bifida, a condition where the baby’s spine and spinal cord fail to develop properly,” added Dr. Yosef.

Long-Term Social Impact

The challenges faced by girls in early marriages do not stop at pregnancy and childbirth. Limited financial resources, restricted mobility, and lack of autonomy often prevent young mothers from gaining adequate parenting knowledge and skills. Emotional unpreparedness can lead to neglect or improper childcare.

As a result, children may experience developmental delays, learning difficulties, behavioral problems, and a higher likelihood of entering early marriage themselves, perpetuating a harmful cycle.

Source: cantik.tempo.co (Aura)