The effects of polygamous marriages on the wellbeing of African women in Baziya area, Mthatha, Eastern Cape.

The study aimed on exploring the effects of polygamous marriages on the wellbeing of African women. The study was conducted in Baziya Administrative Area in Mthatha which in Eastern Cape. The researcher seeks to examine the reasons for African women to be engaged in polygamous marriages, to investigate challenges if any faced by African women in polygamous marriage and to examine professional support services available from the department of social development, the department of justice and the department of traditional affairs in advocating for women in polygamous marriages. Feminist theory was utilized in the study which focuses on the socially constructed gender differences that are created through the process of socialization which include gender inequality. The study was qualitative in nature. Interviews were conducted with polygamous married women and group discussions were conducted with stakeholders working with polygamous married women. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis. The study recommended therapeutic treatment of emotional stress for polygamous women or treatment of related bodily ills such as gender based violence or any other type of abuse should be provided by social workers. There is a need of implementation of empowerment programs, polygamous women should be encouraged to manage their careers proactively and to make informed choice