Authors: David W. Lawson, Rachel Lynes, Addison Morris, Susan B. Schaffnit

Published: September 23, 2020

This study examined what the public in the United States knows about the issue of child marriage, both worldwide and within the U.S. itself. Researchers discovered significant misconceptions on both fronts, including a widespread and incorrect belief that child marriage was illegal in all 50 states. Read more.

Author: Tahirih Justice Center

Published: May, 2020

This one-pager brings together research on the devastating, lifelong harms of child marriage in the United States.

Authors: Avanda Adhia et al.

Publication: January, 2020

This report, published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, examines the availability of civil protection orders to minors in dating relationships across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. The authors find that while 48 states allow minors to obtain CPOs, only 14 states explicitly allow them to file for a protection order on their own behalf. Read more.

Authors: Michele Zaman and Alissa Koski

Publication: March 3, 2020

Researchers systematically reviewed existing academic literature and news media to learn what is known about the frequency of child marriage in Canada, and its effects on health. A review of population data showed that approximately 1% of all Canadian teens aged 15-19 were married or in a common law union in 2016. Read more.

Compiled by: Tahirih Justice Center

Publication: January, 2020

The 20 survivor voices featured in the report provide a powerful window into the circumstances under which children are forced and coerced into marriages in modern-day America.

These survivors have shared their stories so that we may understand fully the significant, life-long consequences of child marriage and to compel us all to continue our fight to change the laws that allow this practice to continue. For every survivor who speaks out, countless others cannot do so. This report honors their courage as well.