Date of Award
Spring 3-2-2019
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Abstract
Forced marriage is clearly defined as a “human rights abuse” by the U.S. Department of State and as a crime by California state statutes. However, the practice of forced marriage is not very well understood and is generally not considered to be an issue that exists in the United States. This lack of recognition creates barriers to identify and respond to victims of this abuse. Victims of forced child marriage remain an underserved and largely unidentified population in California and across the United States. The problem is further exacerbated when a victim is a minor forced into marriage. This research proposal will examine the need to take an in depth look at the role and response of domestic abuse shelters and local law enforcement agencies to victims of forced child marriage. Identifying gaps in service for victims of forced child marriage is imperative to better serve this population. Focused research could help law enforcement, domestic violence shelters, social workers, educators, and medical professionals to better understand this specialized area of domestic abuse and offer solutions to victims of forced child marriage.
Recommended Citation
Fusenig, Sara, "Examining Services for Victims of Forced Child Marriage in the Bay Area" (2019). EMPA Capstones. 108.
https://digitalcommons.law.ggu.edu/capstones/108