Bound by Blood: Lived Experiences of Married Women in Consanguineous Marriages in Azad Jammu and Kashmir
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15732743Keywords:
Consanguineous Marriages, Birth Defects, Women's Experiences, Social StigmaAbstract
Purpose: This qualitative study explores the lived experiences of women in consanguineous marriages who have children with birth defects in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Grounded in the principles of social constructivism, the research seeks to understand how these women perceive and interpret their experiences within their social and cultural contexts.
Design/Methodology/Approach: By using the purposive sampling, researchers collected the data from the fifteen mothers for in-depth interviews. Thematic analysis revealed key themes including the burden of emotional labor, societal stigmatization, and limited access to adequate healthcare services.
Findings: The findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive support and intervention strategies that address the mental health, well-being, and social inclusion of women in such marriages. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex, socially constructed realities these women face and offers valuable insights for shaping policies and practices aimed at their empowerment.
Implications/Originality/Value: It highlights the importance of implementing targeted healthcare programs—particularly genetic counseling and early intervention services—to reduce the incidence of birth defects in consanguineous unions. Furthermore, strengthening social support systems and community-based initiatives is essential to combat stigma and improve the quality of life for affected women and their families.
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