1.1 Introduction
Family planning refers to the practice of controlling the number and spacing of children in a family through the use of contraceptive methods and the treatment of involuntary infertility (World Health Organization, 2020). It is a crucial component of reproductive health that allows individuals and couples to make informed decisions regarding childbearing, which has direct implications on maternal and child health, economic stability, and overall societal development (United Nations, 2019).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are significance of the study, scope of work, research hypothesis and questions, limitation of the study and definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Historically, family planning programmes emerged in the early 20th century as governments and health organizations sought to address high fertility rates and improve maternal and child health outcomes (Cleland et al., 2006). According to Bongaarts (2014), the early initiatives focused primarily on limiting population growth, but over time, the scope expanded to include women's empowerment, reproductive rights, and comprehensive access to contraceptive services. In Nigeria, family planning initiatives were introduced in the 1960s with the establishment of government-supported health services aimed at controlling population growth (Fatusi & Bello, 2010). Dahiru, and Aliyu (2015) reported that despite government efforts, misconceptions and social norms significantly influenced women's willingness to participate in family planning programmes, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
Over the years, family planning programmes have expanded to incorporate education, counseling, and community-based services. According to Akinyemi, Adedini, and Oyediran (2021), these programmes increasingly recognize the importance of women's attitudes and perceptions in determining uptake and sustained use of contraceptive methods. Researchers contend that interventions which involve men, religious leaders, and community stakeholders are more effective in addressing socio-cultural barriers and promoting positive attitudes towards family planning (Akinyemi et al., 2021).
Globally, family planning has become integral to achieving sustainable development goals, particularly those related to health, gender equality, and poverty reduction. The United Nations (2019) affirmed that effective family planning programmes contribute to improved maternal and child health, economic stability, and social development. Researchers have stated that understanding the historical context of family planning, including the evolution of women's attitudes and the factors shaping these attitudes, is essential for designing interventions that are culturally appropriate and effective.
Family planning is a critical aspect of reproductive health that enables individuals and couples to determine the timing and number of their children, ultimately contributing to improved maternal and child health and overall socio-economic development. According to the World Health Organization (2020), family planning programmes provide access to contraceptive methods, reproductive health education, and counseling services that help women make informed decisions about childbearing.
Several studies have explored women's attitudes towards family planning and its impact on programme effectiveness. Babalola and Fatusi (2009) reported that women's educational level and access to health information significantly influence their attitudes towards contraceptive use. They asserted that women with higher education and exposure to awareness campaigns are more likely to adopt family planning methods. Similarly, Akinyemi, Adedini, and Oyediran (2021) stated that socio-cultural norms, religious beliefs, and spousal influence strongly shape women's decisions regarding participation in family planning programmes.
Ejembi et al., (2015) affirmed that many women in Northern Nigeria are hesitant to utilize contraceptive services due to concerns about health risks and social disapproval. This study is set against the backdrop of these challenges and opportunities, aiming to investigate the attitude of women towards family planning programmes.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that women's attitudes towards family planning is often affected by misconceptions about health risks, fears of side effects, and a lack of comprehensive knowledge about available options (World Health Organization, 2020). Also, some women may have a positive disposition towards family planning but are constrained by limited access to healthcare facilities, financial barriers, or decision-making power within their households (Akinyemi et al., 2021).
Furthermore, the role of education and awareness in shaping women's attitudes is significant. Women who are less informed or inadequately educated about reproductive health is more likely to harbor negative attitudes or show reluctance towards family planning services (Babalola & Fatusi, 2009).
Additionally, educated women with better awareness and exposure to health campaigns are more likely to adopt contraceptive methods and actively participate in family planning decisions. It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to investigate the attitude of women towards family planning programmes.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of this study is to investigate the attitude of women towards family planning programmes and identify the factors influencing their participation. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To examine the influence of socio-cultural and religious beliefs on women's attitudes towards family planning.
- To determine the role of educational status in shaping women's attitudes towards contraceptive use.
- To assess the level of awareness of women regarding family planning programmes.
- To identify barriers preventing women from participating in family planning programmes.
- To recommend strategies to improve women's engagement with family planning initiatives.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- What is the level of awareness among women regarding family planning programmes?
- How do socio-cultural and religious beliefs influence women's attitudes towards family planning?
- What is the impact of educational status on women's attitude towards contraceptive use?
- What barriers prevent women from participating in family planning programmes?
- What strategies can be implemented to enhance women's engagement with family planning initiatives?
1.6 Research Hypotheses
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
- H01: There is no significant relationship between women's educational level and their attitude towards family planning programmes.
- H02: Women with higher educational levels will have a more positive attitude towards family planning programmes.
- H03: Socio-cultural and religious beliefs will significantly influence women's attitudes towards family planning.
- H04: Awareness of family planning programmes will positively affect women's participation.
1.7 Significance of Study
It is believed that at the completion of the study, the findings will provide guidance on addressing misconceptions and improving service delivery to meet women's needs. The study will also empower women by enhancing their knowledge and understanding of family planning options.
Furthermore, the research will support evidence-based policies that encourage positive attitudes and higher uptake of family planning programmes. In addition, the findings will inform programme design and outreach strategies for community-based interventions.
Lastly, the study will contribute to the literature on reproductive health, family planning, and women's attitudes in Nigeria, providing a foundation for future studies.
1.8 Scope of Study
This study focuses on women of reproductive age in Lagos State, Nigeria, with particular emphasis on their attitudes towards family planning programmes offered through primary healthcare centres.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
1.10 Definition of Terms
Family Planning: According to the World Health Organization (2020), family planning is the ability of individuals and couples to anticipate and attain their desired number of children and the spacing and timing of their births, using contraceptive methods and treatment of involuntary infertility.
Contraceptive Use: Babalola and Fatusi (2009) affirmed that contraceptive use refers to the utilization of methods and devices intended to prevent pregnancy, including hormonal, barrier, and natural methods.
Socio-cultural Beliefs: Ejembi et al. (2015) contended that socio-cultural beliefs are the customs, traditions, and social norms that influence individuals' behavior and decision-making regarding reproductive health.
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