I was reading an article on the Time.com website today about how many countries cultures involve the families marrying off young girls to older men. One of the reasons for that is that the families feel that it protects the young girl from future violence “on the streets.” Some think it ensures her financial security, some do it because the husband pays a dowry that the family needs. Whatever the reason, it is not uncommon in many countries. Yet often the young girl is married off to an abusive husband, against her wishes and she becomes a victim of spousal abuse. This is such a sad situation; I wish there was a good solution. But as long as poverty abounds in these countries, I think the custom will continue, even if the countries pass laws against such marriages.