Transformation of Polygyny in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Cross-National Analysis of Changing Prevalence and Characteristics

• In Event: 3464 - Family Formation Across the Globe

Abstract

As elsewhere in the developing world, Sub-Saharan Africa has experienced profound transformations of the institution of marriage. Yet, unlike most other parts of the world, polygyny has been widespread across the subcontinent. Using data from the Demographic and Health Surveys from 24 countries, we study recent trends in the prevalence of polygyny, as well as in characteristics of spouses in polygynous unions and the quality of their relationships. Preliminary results indicate that the prevalence of polygyny is declining but also that the rate of this decline varies across countries. The completed paper will relate these patterns to changes in the nature and quality of polygynous marriages and will reflect on the implications of findings for the future of the institution of marriage and of couples’ and women’s well-being in the subcontinent.

Authors

• Sophia Chae, University of Montreal

• Victor Agadjanian, University of California, Los Angeles