P-59 The Influence of Family Dynamics on Contraceptive Use in Madagascar and the Ensuing Impact on Family Well-Being
Abstract
The objective of this study is to explore the relationship between family influence, contraceptive use, and family well-being. A survey was administered in the Vatovavy Fitovinany region of Madagascar, which has one of the lowest contraceptive prevalence rates in the country. The survey collected data on family dynamics and knowledge and practice of family planning. Data were retained for 768 Malagasy couples. Multiple regression was used to determine (1) the relationships between contraceptive use and two levels of family dynamics and extended family influence and (2) whether the two levels of family dynamics and contraceptive use were associated with four types of well-being: psychological, physical, intellectual, and economic. There is evidence that while both spousal dynamics and extended family influence were associated with contraceptive use, spousal dynamics showed a stronger relationship. Analyses regarding well-being were inconclusive overall but suggest that spousal dynamics may also have a greater association with well-being than extended family influence. We recommend increased support for family planning promotion and training that includes couples as a unit rather than women only. Also, family planning can be promoted during community outreach in order to increase understanding and acceptance within the community, which includes extended family members.
Location
Buller Hallway
Start Date
3-7-2014 2:30 PM
End Date
3-7-2014 4:00 PM
P-59 The Influence of Family Dynamics on Contraceptive Use in Madagascar and the Ensuing Impact on Family Well-Being
Buller Hallway
The objective of this study is to explore the relationship between family influence, contraceptive use, and family well-being. A survey was administered in the Vatovavy Fitovinany region of Madagascar, which has one of the lowest contraceptive prevalence rates in the country. The survey collected data on family dynamics and knowledge and practice of family planning. Data were retained for 768 Malagasy couples. Multiple regression was used to determine (1) the relationships between contraceptive use and two levels of family dynamics and extended family influence and (2) whether the two levels of family dynamics and contraceptive use were associated with four types of well-being: psychological, physical, intellectual, and economic. There is evidence that while both spousal dynamics and extended family influence were associated with contraceptive use, spousal dynamics showed a stronger relationship. Analyses regarding well-being were inconclusive overall but suggest that spousal dynamics may also have a greater association with well-being than extended family influence. We recommend increased support for family planning promotion and training that includes couples as a unit rather than women only. Also, family planning can be promoted during community outreach in order to increase understanding and acceptance within the community, which includes extended family members.
Acknowledgments
Undergraduate Research Scholar
Advisor: Duane McBride, Behavioral Sciences