Designing a model for promoting the participation of men in sexual and reproductive health using Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS)

Abstract

Background and purpose of the study: Undoubtedly, without sexual and reproductive health, women will not be able to achieve their other rights. This goal will be achieved only when they are supported by men. Therefore, the present study was conducted with the aim of providing information required to design a model for promoting the men`s participation in sexual and reproductive health using structural equation modeling-partial least squares. Methodology: This research was a descriptive-analytical study conducted on 150 married men who were randomly included in the study. The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire designed based on the results of a qualitative study and a review of articles. Its validity and reliability have been already examined. Data were collected through a questionnaire and analyzed by structural equation modeling. Results: The results of this study revealed that all strategies for the promotion of men`s participation, except for the solution of "maximum use of religious capacities", had a normal distribution, and according to the positive values of the CV-Redundancy Index and the CV-Communality Index, the structural model had a good and appropriate fit for all variables. Conclusion: According to the results, the high-level decision-makers can be informed to decide where and how to focus their efforts and resources so that they can maximize the participation of men in sexual and reproductive health.