How can I tell if someone has been forced into marriage?

There are typical warning signs that may occur when someone is to be forced into marriage.

• The person will tend to have a sudden drop in enthusiasm and motivation as they may believe that their lives are already planned for them.
• Truancy from schools and sick leave from work is another warning sign because it could be the victims only possible time for escapism, also extended leave from school or work could suggest that they are spending long periods of time abroad, perhaps making arrangements for the marriage.
• Conflicts with parents, extreme limitations upon the victim and a history of domestic violence could suggest that the parents are too controlling.
• Sometimes the victim may become depressed, there is a possibility they may self-harm, or sometimes the excessive control from the parents can lead to bad behaviour such as bullying or victimising others.
• If there is a history of older siblings leaving education early and marrying early, this could suggest that the parents believe that they have the choice in whom their child marries and when.

However, the evidence and full facts must be established before any accusations are made because the unwanted attention could cause considerable distress to the family.

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