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Early Marriage And Reproduction In Two Egyptian Villages, Laila El Hamamsy

Poverty, Gender, and Youth

As noted in this monograph, marriage forms a central element of social life for Egyptians. Marriage in Egypt is nearly universal, and parents invest heavily to establish their children in married life. Once married, couples are faced with social pressures to begin childbearing immediately, a reflection of the high value placed on parenthood and children. But not all marriages begin with the same prospects for stability and satisfaction. This study draws attention to the problems faced by women who marry at very early ages in parts of rural Egypt. Despite a legal minimum age of 16, significant numbers of young …