The role of couple dynamics in contraception decision-making.

Abstract

The nature of couple communication patterns could demonstrate inherent power imbalances present in the couple relationship. Power dynamics may affect couples’ decisions. Rooted in a feminist perspective, power differentials reflect societal norms of women where when partnered with men and have less influence in decision-making. This study focused on contraception methods (i.e., birth control pills and condoms were the most commonly used in this sample) decision-making. We utilized data collected through the National Couples Survey who sampled male–female, heterosexual couples recruited from U.S. cities (Baltimore, MD; Durham, NC; Seattle, WA; Saint Louis, MO) in 2005–2006 (Grady et al., 2009; n = 570 eligible couples). An actor–partner interdependence model (APIM), using multilevel modeling, tested couple dynamics (e.g., coercion, communication) and contraception decision-making. Results of the adjusted APIM showed men who perceived their partner engaged in more coercion tactics decided contraception choice less frequently. Men’s relationship satisfaction increased when women reported making the contraception decision. Actor–partner effects and covariates explained 13.96% of the variance in male contraception decision-making while explaining 10.61% of the variance in female contraception decision-making. As most contraceptives are designed for the female body, this could show women making a decision that is best for their body, but may also be a sign of a power imbalance where men perceive partner coercion, perhaps, because of her efforts to choose for herself.

Determinants of Long-Term Contraceptive Method among Reproductive-Aged Women in Sulawesi Island (Data Analysis of IDHS 2017)

“…Next, there is a relationship between employment and the use of LTCM, where women who work as much as 25.3% have a 1.4 times chance of using LTCM compared to those who do not work with a p value of 0.003, in line with other studies showing that women who work have a 1.8 times chance of using LTCM [14]. Next, there is a relationship between knowledge about family planning and the use of LTCM in women of reproductive-aged, where women who have high knowledge about family planning as much as 27.1% have a chance of 1.4 times using LTCM with a p value of 0.001, in line with other studies which show that women with high knowledge about family planning have a 0.6 times chance of using LTCM compared to women who have low knowledge about family planning, one of the obstacles to family planning is poor knowledge, knowledge about family planning (FP) is one important aspect as an understanding of the various contraceptive methods available [15].…”

“…In reinforcing factor, there is a relationship between family planning decision making and the use of LTCM, where families who make family planning decisions together as much as 27.5% have a 1.7 times chance of using LTCM compared to families who make family planning decisions alone, either wife/husband alone with a p value of 0.001. In line with other studies, it shows that family planning decision making based on joint decisions has a 2.8 times chance of using LTCM compared to independent decision making [15]. The husband's role in the family planning programme is considered important because he is usually the decider in family policy.…”

Joint Decision-Making Communication Between Spouses Affected by Aphasia

“…To date, much of the extant research on joint decision-making between spouses has focused on the influence of gender and marital roles in an attempt to explain marital decision-making outcomes (e.g., Acosta et al, 2020; Bartley et al, 2005; Bernard et al, 2019; Gnagey et al, 2020; Hung, 2018; Li, 2022; Litvin et al, 2004; Margrett & Marsiske, 2002; Meyer et al, 2022; Osamor & Grady, 2018; Padula & McNatt, 2004; Taniguchi and Kaufman, 2022; Van Raaij et al, 2020; Wellington, 2022). Few studies have examined the communicative processes involved in marital decision-making interactions (Krueger, 1983, 1985; Krueger & Smith, 1982).…”