1.  Peer Reviewed Title: Conceptualising abortion stigma. Author: Kumar A; Hessini L; Mitchell EM Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2009 May 12;:1. Abstract: Abortion stigma is widely acknowledged in many countries, but poorly theorised. Although media accounts often evoke abortion stigma as a universal social fact, we suggest that the social production of abortion stigma is profoundly local. Abortion stigma is neither natural nor 'essential' and relies upon power disparities and inequalities for its formation. In this paper, we identify social and political processes that favour the emergence, perpetuation and normalisation of abortion stigma. We hypothesise that abortion transgresses three cherished 'feminine' ideals: perpetual fecundity; the inevitability of motherhood; and instinctive nurturing. We offer examples of how abortion stigma is generated through popular and medical discourses, government and political structures, institutions, communities and via personal interactions. Finally, we propose a research agenda to reveal, measure and map the diverse manifestations of abortion stigma and its impact on women's health. Language: English Keywords: CRITIQUE | KAP SURVEYS | POLICYMAKERS | ABORTION | STIGMA | SEX DISCRIMINATION | SOCIAL DISCRIMINATION | INEQUALITIES | POLITICAL FACTORS | SOCIAL PROBLEMS | FEMALE ROLE | PUBLIC OPINION | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Sociocultural Factors | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Social Behavior | Behavior | Attitudes | Psychological Factors Document Number: 341497 |
| 2. Peer Reviewed Title: The lived experience of Malawian women with obstetric fistula. Author: Yeakey MP; Chipeta E; Taulo F; Tsui AO Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2009 May 14;:1. Abstract: Data on women who experience obstetric fistula paints an often tragic picture. The majority of previous research has focused on facility-based data from women receiving surgical treatment. The goal of this qualitative study was to gain an understanding of the lived experience of obstetric fistula in Malawi. Forty-five women living with fistula were interviewed in their homes to learn how the condition affected them and their families on a daily basis. Findings indicate that the experiences of Malawian women with fistula were more varied than anticipated. Concerning relationships with husbands and family, we found high rates of divorce and stigma, yet these outcomes were far from universal or inevitable. Many women, in addition to their families, discussed high levels of support from those individuals closest to them. Nonetheless, many women experienced the fistula as a direct assault on their ability to fulfil social expectations of them as women, wives and mothers. Women identified fertility and continued childbearing as central concerns. The data suggest that we cannot discount the experiences of women living with fistula from continued participation in marriage, community and childbearing. Programmes for outreach and services should consider a broadened range of outcomes of women living with fistula. Language: English Keywords: MALAWI | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | PREGNANT WOMEN | SPOUSE | VESICOVAGINAL FISTULA | PREGNANCY COMPLICATIONS | FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS | STIGMA | DIVORCE | SPOUSAL SUPPORT | FEMALE ROLE | FERTILITY | QUALITY OF LIFE | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Urogenital Effects | Urogenital System | Physiology | Biology | Diseases | Social Problems | Nuptiality | Microeconomic Factors | Social Behavior | Behavior | Population Dynamics | Social Welfare Document Number: 341494 |
3.  Title: Violence against women in Pakistan: A framework for analysis. Author: Ali PA; Gavino MI Source: Journal of Pakistan Medical Association. 2008 Apr;58(4):198-203. Abstract: Understanding violence against women is as complex as its process. As a perusal of literature shows that most of the explanations were contextually and culturally based, this review attempts to analyze the issue of violence against women using theories applicable within the Pakistani context. Literature examining the issue of violence against women and its various theories was reviewed. A framework using the determinants of violence against women as proposed, include intrinsic and extrinsic factors within the people, the socio-economic-political and cultural system of Pakistan and the influences of surrounding countries. The Pakistani scenario has been described and the theoretical bases were presented. Each determinant has been discussed with supporting literature. Further studies are needed to strengthen the framework; however, it provided a modest view of violence against women in Pakistan. The framework would help the policy and decision makers to understand the dynamics of violence against women and may move them to action to bring about improvements in women's' lives. (author's) Language: English Keywords: PAKISTAN | RESEARCH REPORT | DATA ANALYSIS | LITERATURE REVIEW | WOMEN | COUPLES | VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | HUMAN RIGHTS | ALCOHOL USE AND ABUSE | FEMALE ROLE | CULTURE | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Domestic Violence | Crime | Social Problems | Political Factors | Behavior | Social Behavior Document Number: 327268 |
| 4. Peer Reviewed Title: Micro-credit, women's groups, control of own money: HIV-related negotiation among partnered Dominican women. Author: Ashburn K; Kerrigan D; Sweat M Source: AIDS and Behavior. 2008 May;12(3):396-403. Abstract: A sample of 356 members of women's groups, aged 18-49, in the Dominican Republic were interviewed by trained female interviewers. Data among 273 partnered women were analyzed. The dependent variable, a measure of HIV-related negotiation, was examined for associations with control of own money, level of women's group participation, and ever having received a loan through a micro-credit program. Findings suggest control of own money to be significantly associated with HIV-related negotiation. Ever having received a loan and level of women's group participation, however, were not significantly associated with HIV-related negotiation. Empowerment measured as control of own money may influence HIV protective behavior among partnered women in this setting. (author's) Language: English Keywords: DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | RESEARCH REPORT | INTERVIEWS | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | WOMEN'S GROUPS | MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT | HIV PREVENTION | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | PARTNER COMMUNICATION | FEMALE ROLE | INEQUALITIES | Developing Countries | Caribbean | Americas | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Interest Groups | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Programs | Organization and Administration | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Women's Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Interpersonal Relations | Behavior | Social Behavior Document Number: 325821 |
| 5. Peer Reviewed Title: Vaginal practices: eroticism and implications for women’s health and condom use in Mozambique. Author: Bagnol B; Mariano E Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2008 Aug;10(6):573-585. Abstract: This paper analyses two female sexual practices in Tete Province, Mozambique: (1) the practice of elongating the labia minora and (2) what is sometimes called 'dry sex' involving the insertion of natural and/or synthetic products into the vagina or the ingestion of these products orally. These practices are fundamental to the construction of female identity, eroticism and the experience of pleasure. Notions such as 'closed/open', 'dry/damp', 'hot/cold', 'heavy/light', 'life/death', 'wealth/ poverty' and 'sweet/not sweet' are central to local understandings of sexual practices and reproduction. These notions may affect the women's sexual health because they influence preferences for sex without a condom. These practices may also be associated with the alteration of the vaginal flora and vaginal lesions that may make women more vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections. (author's) Language: English Keywords: MOZAMBIQUE | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | SEX BEHAVIOR | WOMEN'S HEALTH | CONDOM USE | VAGINA | CULTURE | FEMALE ROLE | PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS | LANGUAGE | ANTHROPOLOGY, CULTURAL | REPRODUCTION | VAGINAL ABNORMALITIES | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Behavior | Health | Risk Reduction Behavior | Genitalia, Female | Genitalia | Urogenital System | Physiology | Biology | Sociocultural Factors | Social Behavior | Communication | Anthropology | Social Sciences | Science | Diseases Document Number: 327792 |
| 6. Peer Reviewed Title: Perceived influence of an HIV vaccine on sexual-risk behaviour in the Dominican Republic. Author: Barrington C; Moreno L; Kerrigan D Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2008 May;10(4):391-401. Abstract: This study explored local perceptions regarding the potential influence of an HIV vaccine on sexual risk behaviours in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Qualitative in-depth interviews were carried out with 25 participants, including 15 women and 10 men. Approximately half of the male study participants stated that they would increase their number of sexual partners and/or would not use condoms if they received an HIV vaccine. In contrast, women reported that they would be unlikely to change their own behaviour, but stated that an HIV vaccine would allow them to worry less about the sexual-risk behaviour of their male partners. Our findings suggest the need to utilize existing HIV prevention programmes to support future HIV vaccine research and distribution efforts and minimize increased risk behaviour. Such efforts should actively assess and address the role of culturally-defined gender norms on behavioural responses to the introduction of HIV vaccines. (author's) Language: English Keywords: DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | RESEARCH REPORT | QUALITATIVE RESEARCH | INTERVIEWS | HIV | VACCINES | RISK BEHAVIOR | SEX BEHAVIOR | PERCEPTION | CONDOM USE | MULTIPLE PARTNERS | FEMALE ROLE | MALE ROLE | GENDER ISSUES | Developing Countries | Caribbean | Americas | Research Methodology | Data Collection | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Behavior | Psychological Factors | Risk Reduction Behavior | Sexual Partners | Social Behavior | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 326897 |
| 7. Title: Women and nation-building. Author: Benard C; Jones SG; Oliker O; Thurston CQ; Stearns BK Source: Santa Monica, California, RAND, Center for Middle East Public Policy, 2008. [207] p. Abstract: The challenge of nation-building, i.e., dealing with the societal and political aftermath of conflicts and putting new governments and new social compacts into place, has occupied much international energy during the past several decades. As an art, a process, and a set of competencies, it is still very much in an ongoing learning and experimentation phase. The RAND Corporation has contributed to the emerging knowledge base in this domain through a series of studies that have looked at notion-building enterprises led by the United States and others that were led by the United Nations and have examined the experiences gained during the reconstruction of specific sectors. Our study focuses on gender and nation-building. It considers this issue from two aspects: First, it examines gender-specific impacts of conflict and post-conflict and the ways in which events in these contexts may affect women differently than they affect men. Second, it analyzes the role of women in the nation-building process, in terms of both actual current practices, as far as these could be measured and ascertained, and possible outcomes that might occur if these practices were to be modified. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | AFGHANISTAN | RESEARCH REPORT | RECOMMENDATIONS | CASE STUDIES | DATA COLLECTION | EVALUATION INDEXES | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | GOVERNMENT | FEMALE ROLE | WAR | NATIONAL SECURITY | WOMEN'S HEALTH | ECONOMIC FACTORS | HEALTH STATUS INDEXES | Asia, Southern | Asia | Studies | Research Methodology | Quantitative Evaluation | Evaluation | Economic Development | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Social Behavior | Behavior | Health Document Number: 326013 |
| 8. Peer Reviewed Title: Demography, culture, and policy: Understanding Japan's low fertility. Author: Boling P Source: Population and Development Review. 2008 Jun;34(2):307-326. Abstract: Insights into the causes of Japan's prolonged and sharp fall in total fertility rate come from comparing Japan with France. The two countries share dirigiste administrative approaches, family policy reform undertaken under the auspices of pragmatic right wing parties and justified on pronatalist grounds, and involvement of demographic experts in crafting and shepherding such policies. But the countries differ with respect to their total fertility rates (France 1.98, Japan 1.29) and the effectiveness of their family policies. Thus comparing them can help identify areas of divergence that might explain these differences and assist in the project of theory building. Several salient explanations are rooted in Japan's labor market: it exacts high opportunity costs from parents who interrupt their careers to raise children, keeps ideal workers from having much time for their families, assumes and reinforces a traditional gender ideology, and hires few young workers into good jobs. (author's) Language: English Keywords: JAPAN | FRANCE | COMPARATIVE STUDIES | FERTILITY DECLINE | DEMOGRAPHIC AGING | FAMILY POLICY | POPULATION POLICY | TOTAL FERTILITY RATE | LABOR FORCE | GENDER ISSUES | PRONATALIST POLICY | POLITICAL SYSTEMS | FAMILY ALLOWANCES | CHILD CARE | FEMALE ROLE | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developed Countries | Europe, Western | Europe | Studies | Research Methodology | Fertility Changes | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Fertility Rate | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Child Rearing | Behavior | Social Behavior Document Number: 327375 |
| 9. Title: Saving young lives: Pathfinder International’s youth-friendly postabortion care project. Author: Burket MK; Hainsworth G; Boyce C Source: Watertown, Massachusetts, Pathfinder International, 2008. 24 p. Abstract: This report describes Pathfinder's recent experience implementing the Youth-Friendly Postabortion Care (YFPAC) Project in eight African countries. The document is a longer companion piece to Pathfindings: Youth-Friendly Postabortion Care Services in Africa. It contains program descriptions, an overview of the process of making PAC services youth friendly, key results, challenges, lessons learned, and recommendations. Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | SUMMARY REPORT | ADOLESCENTS, FEMALE | PREGNANCY, UNPLANNED | ABORTION | SAFETY | RISK FACTORS | MATERNAL MORTALITY | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | FEMALE ROLE | CULTURE | POSTABORTION CARE | HEALTH SERVICES | QUALITY OF HEALTH CARE | PEER EDUCATORS | PROGRAM ACTIVITIES | Adolescents | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Reproductive Behavior | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Public Health | Health | Biology | Mortality | Contraception | Social Behavior | Behavior | Sociocultural Factors | Delivery of Health Care | Health Services Evaluation | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Education Document Number: 329520 Notification |
| 10. Title: Empowerment and physical violence throughout women's reproductive life in Mexico. Author: Castro R; Casique I; Brindis CD Source: Violence Against Women. 2008 Jun;14(6):655-677. Abstract: This article analyzes intimate partner violence (IPV) against women aged 15 to 21, 30 to 34, and 45 to 49, based on the 2003 National Survey on the Dynamics of Household Relationships (in Spanish, ENDIREH) in Mexico. The authors examined the degree of women's empowerment and autonomy in relation to their partners. Logit regression analyses showed that variables significantly associated with physical violence varied between the three age groups, suggesting that women followed specific trajectories throughout their reproductive lives. Some dimensions of empowerment reduced the risk of violence (women's ability to decide whether to work, when to have sexual relations, and the extent of their partners' participation in household chores). Other dimensions (women's decision making regarding reproductive matters) increased such risk. Thus, access to resources meant to empower women did not automatically decrease the risk of violence. The authors recommend specific interventions tailored to each age group, aimed at breaking the cycle of violence. (author's) Language: English Keywords: MEXICO | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | WOMEN | VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | FEMALE ROLE | DECISION MAKING | RISK FACTORS | INTERPERSONAL RELATIONS | North America | Americas | Developing Countries | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Domestic Violence | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Women's Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Social Behavior | Behavior | Biology Document Number: 327028 |
| 11. Title: Wife beating in South Africa: An imbalance theory of resources and power. Author: Choi SY; Ting KF Source: Journal of Interpersonal Violence. 2008 Jun;23(6):834-852. Abstract: This article develops an imbalance theory to explain physical violence against women in intimate relationships in South Africa. The theory proposes four typologies: dependence, compensation, submission, and transgression, through which imbalances in resource contribution and power distribution between spouses are hypothesized to contribute to violence. The dependence hypothesis suggests that economic dependence of the wife will lead to more violence. The compensation hypothesis argues that the husband will use force to compensate for his inability to live up to the male-provider norm. The submission hypothesis suggests that violence will increase due to the submission of women in male-dominated families. Finally, the transgression hypothesis argues that men in female-dominated families will use force to punish their wives for supposedly transgressing the gender norm of male dominance. Empirical evidence provided some support for the dependence, submission, and transgression hypothesis. (author's) Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | MALE ROLE | FEMALE ROLE | POWER | PATRIARCHY | MATRIARCHY | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Domestic Violence | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Social Behavior | Behavior | Political Factors | Family Characteristics | Family and Household Document Number: 326875 |
| 12. Peer Reviewed Title: HIV prevention and low-income Chilean women: Machismo, marianismo and HIV misconceptions. Author: Cianelli R; Ferrer L; McElmurry BJ Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2008 Apr;10(3):297-306. Abstract: Socio-cultural factors and HIV-related misinformation contribute to the increasing number of Chilean women living with HIV. In spite of this, and to date, few culturally specific prevention activities have been developed for this population. The goal of the present study was to elicit the perspectives of low-income Chilean women regarding HIV and relevant socio-cultural factors, as a forerunner to the development of a culturally appropriate intervention. As part of a mixed-methods study, fifty low-income Chilean women participated in a survey and twenty were selected to participate in prevention, in-depth interviews. Results show evidence of widespread misinformation and misconceptions related to HIV/AIDS. Machismo and marianismo offer major barriers to prevention programme development. Future HIV prevention should stress partner communication, empowerment and improving the education of women vulnerable to HIV. (author's) Language: English Keywords: CHILE | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | INTERVIEWS | WOMEN | LOW INCOME POPULATION | HIV | AIDS | HIV PREVENTION | KNOWLEDGE | MISINFORMATION | SOCIOCULTURAL FACTORS | GENDER ISSUES | INEQUALITIES | MALE ROLE | FEMALE ROLE | Developing Countries | South America, Southern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Data Collection | Demographic Factors | Population | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Communication | Social Behavior | Behavior Document Number: 326382 |
| 13. Title: Gender and migration in the central valleys of Oaxaca. Author: Cohen JH; Rodriguez L; Fox M Source: International Migration. 2008 Mar;46(1):79-101. Abstract: In this paper, we examine the gendered nature of international and internal migration that originates in the central valleys of Oaxaca, Mexico. Our goals are to define migration patterns and outcomes for Oaxacan women from the central valleys region and note the differences that mark migrant men and women. We use ethnographic data from anthropological research in 12 of Oaxaca's central valley communities to argue that local concepts of what defines correct behaviour (for both men and women) are critical to the outcomes and the differences that exist in the practices of migrant men and women. (author's) Language: English Keywords: MEXICO | RESEARCH REPORT | MIGRANTS | RURAL AREAS | INTERNATIONAL MIGRATION | INTERNAL MIGRATION | GENDER ISSUES | FEMALE ROLE | MALE ROLE | MOTIVATION | FAMILY AND HOUSEHOLD | North America | Americas | Developing Countries | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Geographic Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Social Behavior | Behavior | Psychological Factors Document Number: 324346 |
| 14. Peer Reviewed Title: Gender role beliefs and family migration. Author: Cooke TJ Source: Population, Space and Place. 2008 May-Jun;14(3):163-175. Abstract: Consistent empirical evidence demonstrates that demographic indicators associated with traditional gender roles, such as the presence of children, are linked to the negative effect of moving on married women's employment and earnings. However, very few studies have directly examined how gender role beliefs are related to family migration behaviour. This analysis demonstrates that when a couple shares egalitarian gender role beliefs, the family has a lower probability of moving when the wife is employed and has a higher probability of moving when the wife is unemployed and wants to work. Among couples that do not share traditional gender role beliefs, migration appears to be unaffected by the employment status of the wife. This study is one of the few which clearly demonstrates that family migration is contingent on the gender role beliefs of husbands and wives. (author's) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | COUPLES | INTERNAL MIGRATION | FEMALE ROLE | MALE ROLE | GENDER ISSUES | OCCUPATIONAL STATUS | EMPLOYMENT STATUS | SEX FACTORS | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Social Behavior | Behavior | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Population Characteristics Document Number: 326579 |
| 15. Peer Reviewed Title: The path to replacement fertility in Egypt: Acceptance, preference, and achievement. Author: El-Zeini LO Source: Studies in Family Planning. 2008 Sep;39(3):161-176. Abstract: This study draws upon data from the 2004 Slow Fertility Transition survey, a follow-up to the 2003 Egypt Interim Demographic and Health Survey, to investigate obstacles to achieving replacement fertility. To account for the likelihood of embracing the two-child ideal, the analysis adopts a framework with the acronym APA: Acceptance of the two-child ideal, Preference for that ideal, and Achievement of that preference. The framework posits a hierarchy among the three and hypothesizes that each depends on a set of factors, including gender stratification, economic expectations, perception of the costs and benefits of having children, and the costs of fertility regulation. The results indicate that son preference and the perceived low cost of childrearing are major obstacles to the acceptance of the two-child family. Son preference, other discriminatory gender attitudes, optimistic economic expectations, and fear of contraceptive side effects are associated with a low preference for and ambivalence about having only two children. Given a decisive preference, lower socioeconomic status and strong son preference are the major obstacles to the achievement of the two-child ideal. (author's) Language: English Keywords: EGYPT | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | POPULATION REPLACEMENT | FAMILY SIZE, IDEAL | CHILD WORTH | PERCEPTION | SEX PREFERENCE | FEMALE ROLE | FERTILITY DETERMINANTS | FERTILITY PREFERENCES | DEMOGRAPHIC TRANSITION | SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Size | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Microeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Value Orientation | Social Behavior | Fertility | Socioeconomic Factors Document Number: 328153 |
| 16. Peer Reviewed Title: Overview Chapter 5: Determinants of family formation and childbearing during the societal transition in Central and Eastern Europe. Author: Frejka T Source: Demographic Research. 2008 Jul 1;19(7):139-170. Abstract: Societal conditions for early and high rates of childbearing were replaced by conditions generating late and low levels of fertility common in Western countries. Central among factors shaping the latter behaviour (job insecurity, unstable partnership relationships, expensive housing, and profound changes in norms, values and attitudes) were the following: increasing proportions of young people were acquiring advanced education, a majority of women were gainfully employed, yet women were performing most household maintenance and childrearing duties. Two theories prevailed to explain what caused changes in family formation and fertility trends. One argues that the economic and social crises were the principal causes. The other considered the diffusion of western norms, values and attitudes as the prime factors of change. Neither reveals the root cause: the replacement of state socialist regimes with economic and political institutions of contemporary capitalism. The extraordinarily low period TFRs around 2000 were the result of low fertility of older women born around 1960 overlapping with low fertility of young women born during the 1970s. (author's) Language: English Keywords: EUROPE | RESEARCH REPORT | FAMILY SIZE | FERTILITY DECLINE | TOTAL FERTILITY RATE | FERTILITY DETERMINANTS | DELAYED CHILDBEARING | SOCIAL CHANGE | FEMALE ROLE | ECONOMIC FACTORS | POLITICAL FACTORS | SOCIAL POLICY | POPULATION POLICY | Developed Countries | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Fertility Changes | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Fertility Rate | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Reproductive Behavior | Social Behavior | Behavior | Policy Document Number: 327717 |
| 17. Title: "This is the time to get in front": Changing roles and opportunities for women in Liberia. Author: Fuest V Source: African Affairs. 2008 Apr;107(427):201-224. Abstract: Most research on women in war focuses on female losses. This article demonstrates that wars may also bring gains. The scope of political and economic roles that Liberian women perform today appears to be larger than before the war. Both individually and collectively, certain women have gainfully used openings the war provided them. The article discusses the historicity of Liberian gender roles, examining the social subgroups of politicians, businesswomen, women's organizations, employees, and school girls. Changes have also been fostered by the international peace-building and development business. Although the realization of female ambitions seems to be constrained by various institutional and economic factors, Liberia may harbour a unique potential for sustainable shifts in gender roles. (author's) Language: English Keywords: LIBERIA | CRITIQUE | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | WAR | PEACEMAKING | FEMALE ROLE | CHANGES | POWER | LEADERSHIP | ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Economic Factors | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Social Behavior | Behavior | Social Change | Organization and Administration | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors Document Number: 325875 |
| 18. Peer Reviewed Title: Gender and AIDS: Time to act. Author: Greig A; Peacock D; Jewkes R; Msimang S Source: AIDS. 2008;22 Suppl 2:S35-S43. Abstract: Gender has long been recognized as being key to understanding and addressing HIV and AIDS. Gender roles and relations that structure and legitimate women's subordination and simultaneously foster models of masculinity that justify and reproduce men's dominance over women exacerbate the spread and impact of the epidemic. Notions of masculinity prevalent in many parts of the world that equate being a man with dominance over women, sexual conquest and risk-taking are associated with less condom use, more sexually transmitted infections, more partners, including more casual partners, more frequent sex, more abuse of alcohol and more transactional sex. They also contribute to men accessing treatment later than women and at greater cost to public health systems. The imperative of addressing the gender dimensions of AIDS has been clearly and repeatedly articulated. Many interventions have been shown to be effective in addressing gender-related risks and vulnerabilities including programmes designed to reach and engage men, improve women's legal and economic position, integrate gender-based violence prevention into HIV services, and increase girls' access to secondary and tertiary education. Despite this, the political will to act has been sorely lacking and not nearly enough has been done to hold governments and multilateral institutions to account. This paper argues that we can no longer simply pay lip service to the urgent need to act on what we know about gender and AIDS. Simply put, it is time to act. (Author's) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RECOMMENDATIONS | CRITIQUE | HIV INFECTIONS | GENDER ISSUES | GENDER RELATIONS | FEMALE ROLE | MALE ROLE | RISK BEHAVIOR | VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | INTERVENTIONS | MEN'S INVOLVEMENT | INCOME GENERATION PROGRAMS | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | WOMEN'S STATUS | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Sociocultural Factors | Social Behavior | Behavior | Domestic Violence | Crime | Social Problems | Programs | Organization and Administration | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Socioeconomic Factors Document Number: 327861 |
| 19. Title: Struggling alone: Gender, migration and domestic violence among Thai women in Bangkok. Author: Han CK; Resurreccion BP Source: Asian Journal of Women's Studies. 2008;14(1):34, 39. Abstract: Female rural-urban migration has significantly contributed to the economic growth of Thailand in the last three decades, particularly in industry and tourism. What is less known, however, is how migrant women navigate their lives in the city and, in particular, their experience of violent relationships from which they attempt to free themselves. Such action runs contrary to earlier notions of women as passive victims of domestic violence. On the basis of interviews with rural migrant women in two Bangkok shelters, we argue that poor women experience major constraints in freeing themselves from violent relationships, which cannot be solely attributed to the cultural system of male domination in Thai society. Gender inequality alone cannot explain the response of women to domestic violence, since it intersects with other systems of power and stratification. This "inter-sectionality" shapes the nature of women's response to domestic violence, how it is experienced and whether escape and safety are indeed possible for them. (author's) Language: English Keywords: THAILAND | RESEARCH REPORT | WOMEN | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | GENDER RELATIONS | RURAL-URBAN MIGRATION | MIGRATION | FEMALE ROLE | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Demographic Factors | Population | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Gender Issues | Population Dynamics | Social Behavior | Behavior Document Number: 326926 |
| 20. Peer Reviewed Title: Hidden love: Sexual ideologies and relationship ideals among rural South African adolescents in the context of HIV / AIDS. Author: Harrison A Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2008 Feb;10(2):175-189. Abstract: In KwaZulu/Natal, South Africa, the social construction of young people's sexuality reflects both a complex historical process of cultural and religious integration, as well as the contemporary resurgence of 'traditionalism'. How do young people interpret these factors to construct and give meaning to their own sexualities? This multi-method qualitative study examined sexuality and relationship formation among sexually experienced young people aged 14-19 in a rural sub-district. In this setting, sexual activity is highly stigmatised, particularly for young teenage women. Dominant sexual ideologies centre on 'good behaviour', the idea that 'sex is wrong', and abstinence as a preferred prevention strategy. Young women's relationships are often hidden but sexual relationships are also an important part of the transition to adulthood. These dichotomies of love and romance versus stigma and secrecy frame young people's discourse about sexuality. A discourse about healthy sexuality is largely absent, impeding the prevention of HIV in this setting. (author's) Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | QUALITATIVE RESEARCH | ADOLESCENTS | RURAL POPULATION | SEXUALITY | GENDER RELATIONS | SEX BEHAVIOR | STIGMA | FEMALE ROLE | GENDER ISSUES | CULTURE | ATTITUDES | VIRGINITY | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Personality | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Sociocultural Factors | Social Problems | Social Behavior Document Number: 324324 |
| 21. Peer Reviewed Title: Acceptability of microbicidal surrogates among Zambian women. Author: Jones DL; Weiss SM; Chitalu N; Bwalya V; Villar O Source: Sexually Transmitted Diseases. 2008 Feb;35(2):147-153. Abstract: This study assessed the acceptability after the use of vaginal lubricants as surrogates for microbicides among women in Zambia and the role of cultural factors as facilitators or impediments to their potential use for HIV risk reduction within the Zambian context. HIV seronegative women (N = 301) recruited from the University Teaching Hospital HIV Voluntary Counseling and Testing Center were randomized into group, individual, or enhanced usual care arms. Participants attended pre- and post-HIV test counseling, followed by a 3-session, 2-hour once-a-month intervention introducing them to vaginal lubricants (2 types of gels, suppositories) in addition to male and female condoms. Supplies were offered at months 4 and 5; assessments were at baseline, 6, and 12 months. At baseline, the majority of women reported minimal previous exposure to vaginal products and low levels of condom use. Participants' use of products was influenced by product characteristics and perceived partner acceptability; the majority of participants preferred drier products and suppository delivery systems. The basis for decisions regarding vaginal product acceptability changed over time and followed product exposure, and was greatly influenced by perceptions of partner acceptability. Results illustrate the influence of male partners on Zambian seronegative women's preferences for microbicidal products, and the change in preferred characteristics over time. (author's) Language: English Keywords: ZAMBIA | RESEARCH REPORT | WOMEN | LUBRICANTS | MICROBICIDES | INTERVENTIONS | CONTRACEPTIVE METHOD ACCEPTABILITY | HIV PREVENTION | RISK REDUCTION BEHAVIOR | CULTURE | PARTNER COMMUNICATION | FEMALE ROLE | MALE ROLE | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Demographic Factors | Population | Ingredients and Chemicals | Drugs | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Programs | Organization and Administration | Contraceptive Usage | Contraception | Family Planning | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Behavior | Sociocultural Factors | Interpersonal Relations | Social Behavior Document Number: 323978 |
| 22. Title: The contextual effects of gender norms, communication, and social capital on family planning behaviors in Uganda: A multilevel approach. Author: Lee B; Salmon CT; Witte K Source: Health Education and Behavior. 2008 Aug;35(4):461-477. Abstract: This study hypothesized a multilevel model to examine the contextual effects of gender norms, exposure to health-related radio programs, interpersonal communication, and social capital on family planning behavior in Uganda. The results of hierarchical linear modeling showed that all of the four variables were significant predictors of family planning behavior. The authors found that gender norms as a contextual factor significantly interacted with the individual-level perceived benefit. The significant cross-level interaction effect was also observed between individuals' interpersonal communication and contextual variation in listening to a health-related radio program. Practical implications for family planning communication campaigns are discussed. (author's) Language: English Keywords: UGANDA | RESEARCH REPORT | FAMILY PLANNING | PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS | SOCIAL NETWORKS | MALE ROLE | FEMALE ROLE | BEHAVIOR CHANGE COMMUNICATION | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE DETERMINANTS | INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Behavior | Friends and Relatives | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Social Behavior | Communication Programs | Communication | Behavior Change | Contraception Document Number: 328006 |
| 23. Peer Reviewed Title: Morality and sexual rights: Constructions of masculinity, femininity and sexuality among a group of South African soldiers. Author: Mankayi N Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2008 Aug;10(6):625-634. Abstract: This paper describes how South African soldiers draw on notions of gender, sexuality and morality in their constructions of identity and heterosexual sexuality. Popular discourses around HIV and AIDS in South Africa and elsewhere have highlighted the centrality of notions of morality, many of them problematic, in the response to the epidemic. In Southern Africa, the centrality of heterosexuality to HIV transmission has triggered a focus on morality in sexuality, including calls for abstinence or, in married relationships, monogamy. This paper discusses the findings of a research study that explored male soldiers' constructions of masculinity, sexuality and risky sexual practices. Discourses that emerged reflected dominant attitudes regarding men and women's sexual rights and, in particular, the moralisation of women's sexuality. (author's) Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | MILITARY PERSONNEL | HETEROSEXUALS | VALUE ORIENTATION | REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS | WOMEN'S RIGHTS | SEX BEHAVIOR | MALE ROLE | FEMALE ROLE | GENDER RELATIONS | HIV PREVENTION | SEXUALITY | HUMAN RIGHTS | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Government | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Behavior | Psychological Factors | Social Behavior | Gender Issues | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Personality Document Number: 327793 |
| 24. Title: Engaging boys and men in GBV prevention and reproductive health in conflict and emergency-reponse settings. A workshop module. Author: Mehta M; Bartel D; Castillo T; Nyagah F Source: New York, New York, EngenderHealth, The ACQUIRE Project, 2008. 60 p. (USAID Contract No. GPO-A-00-03-00006-00) Abstract: This module is designed to build the skills of participants working to engage boys and men in gender-based violence (GBV) prevention and reproductive health (RH) in conflict and other emergency-response settings. This module is for personnel working in conflict and ther emergency-response settings who are interested in engaging boys and men in gender-based violence prevention and reproductive health. This includes those managing or staffing reproductive health, HIV and AIDS, and/or GBV prevention projects in emergency-response settings or conflict zones. Specific audiences to consider targeting are NGO project managers, field staff, health sector coordinators, health promoters, donor representatives, local representatives of ministries of health, and community liaisons working for UNCHR or other U.N. agencies. This module is appropriate for staff that have had some training in gender, GBV prevention, and reproductive health. It serves as an introduction to male engagement in GBV prevention and reproductive health in conflict and emergency-response settings. Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | MANUAL | WORKSHOPS | MEN | CHILD, MALE | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | BELIEFS | FEMALE ROLE | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | Education | Demographic Factors | Population | Child | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Health | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Culture | Social Behavior | Behavior | Diseases Document Number: 341886 |
| 25. Peer Reviewed Title: Traditional values of virginity and sexual behaviour in rural Ethiopian youth: Results from a cross-sectional study. Author: Molla M; Berhane Y; Lindtjorn B Source: BMC Public Health. 2008 Jan 9;8:9. Abstract: Delaying sexual initiation has been promoted as one of the methods of decreasing risks of HIV among young people. In traditional countries, such as Ethiopia, retaining virginity until marriage is the norm. However, no one has examined the impact of this traditional norm on sexual behaviour and risk of HIV in marriage. This study examined the effect of virginity norm on having sex before marriage and sexual behaviour after marriage among rural Ethiopian youth. We did a cross-sectional survey in 9 rural and 1 urban area using a probabilistic sample of 3,743 youth, 15-24 years of age. Univariate analysis was used to assess associations between virginity norm and gender stratified by area, and between sexual behaviour and marital status. We applied Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analysis to estimate age at sexual debut and assessed the predictors of premarital sex among the never-married using SPSS. We found that maintaining virginity is still a way of securing marriage for girls, especially in ruralareas; the odds of belief and intention to marry a virgin among boys was 3-4 times higher among rural young males. As age increased, the likelihood of remaining a virgin decreased. There was no significant difference between married and unmarried young people in terms of number of partners and visiting commercial sex workers. Married men were twice more likely to have multiple sexual partners than their female counterparts. A Cox regression show that those who did not believe in traditional values of preserving virginity (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR] = 2.91 [1.92-4.40]), alcohol drinkers (AHR = 2.91 [1.97-4.29]), Khat chewers (AHR = 2.36 [1.45-3.85]), literates (AHR = 18.01 [4.34-74.42]), and the older age group (AHR = 1.85 [1.19-2.91]) were more likely to have premarital sex than their counterparts. Although virginity norms help delay age at sexual debut among rural Ethiopian youth, and thus reduces vulnerability to sexually transmitted infections and HIV infection, vulnerability among females may increase after marriage due to unprotected multiple risky sexual behaviours by spouses. The use of preventive services, such as VCT before marriage and condom use in marriage should be part of the HIV/AIDS prevention and control strategies. (author's) Language: English Keywords: ETHIOPIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | SURVEYS | YOUTH | VIRGINITY | FIRST INTERCOURSE | SEX BEHAVIOR | PREMARITAL SEX BEHAVIOR | MARITAL STATUS | HIV | RISK FACTORS | CONDOM USE | FEMALE ROLE | MALE ROLE | ALCOHOL USE AND ABUSE | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Research Methodology | Sampling Studies | Studies | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Behavior | Nuptiality | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Biology | Risk Reduction Behavior | Social Behavior Document Number: 308603 |
| 26. Title: [HIV vulnerability in women at social risk] Vulnerabilidade ao HIV em mulheres em risco social. Author: Morales AU; Barreda PZ Source: Revista de Saude Publica. 2008 Oct;42(5):822-9. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To evaluate HIV/AIDS vulnerability by risk factors in women at social risk. METHODS: Study conducted in a sample of 178 female homemakers (n=101) and female health providers (n=77) from Antofagasta, Chile, in 20062007. Homemakers were considered at social risk. HIV vulnerability was estimated through a 21-item instrument comprising three domains: gender roles; relationship with the partner; and attitude toward condom use. For determining the relative weight of each dimension to total vulnerability a multiple regression analysis was carried out using the instrument's total score as dependent variable and each domain as independent variable. RESULTS: Overall, the domain showing the highest relative weight was attitude toward condom use (0.542), followed by relationship with the partner (0.453) and gender roles (0.379). There were weight differences between homemakers: relationship with the partner (0.597), attitude toward condom use (0.508) and gender roles (0,403); and health providers: attitude toward condom use (0.638), relationship with the partner (0.397), and gender roles (0.307). CONCLUSIONS: The study results allows to inferring that there are differences in factors that determine HIV vulnerability among women and gender role is the best predictor of risk among those at social risk. Language: Spanish Keywords: CHILE | RESEARCH REPORT | EVALUATION | WOMEN | RISK FACTORS | HIV INFECTIONS | ATTITUDES | CONDOM USE | MALE ROLE | FEMALE ROLE | Developing Countries | South America, Southern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Demographic Factors | Population | Health | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Risk Reduction Behavior | Social Behavior Document Number: 331164 |
| 27. Title: The impact of diarrhoea in infants on the quality of life of low-income households. Author: Murray M; Versteeg M; Hugo J Source: South African Family Practice. 2008 Mar-Apr;50(2):62. Abstract: This article reports on a study that explored the impact of diarrhoea in babies on the quality of life of low-income households. Diarrhoeal diseases continue to be an important cause of illness and death worldwide. One major cause of infantile diarrhoea is the rotavirus, an airborne virus to which almost all children in both the developing and developed world will be exposed to at least once. The study, as well as the clinical trials and cost studies, was commissioned by GlaxoSmithKline to assist in the decision-making processes regarding whether and how to implement a newly developed vaccine against rotavirus through national immunisation programmes. The objective of the study was to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the impact of severe diarrhoea in babies on the quality of life of a selected group of low-income households. The study was qualitative, explorative and descriptive in nature. A recently developed quality of life (QoL) assessment instrument, based on a comprehensive list of fundamental needs developed by development expert Manfred Max-Neef, was used to assess the impact of diarrhoea in babies on households. The QoL instrument includes 125 open questions related to basic necessities and activities, localisation, relationships and consciousness of household members. In addition, group and individual interviews were held. Twenty-nine households with children younger than two years of age who had experienced diarrhoea in the previous two months were selected. By means of a number of medical questions related to the duration of the diarrhoea and related symptoms, babies with severe diarrhoea were purposively sampled. After analysis of the data, these babies were classified as follows: 20 had severe diarrhoea, six had moderate diarrhoea and three were diagnosed as having had mild diarrhoea. Two babies were previously admitted to the hospital. Of the 29 households surveyed, 22 households were interviewed using the QoL assessment instrument, and seven households were interviewed by means of group and individual interviews. Ethical approval for the research was obtained from the ethics committee of the Faculty of Theology at the University of Pretoria. Poor housing conditions exacerbated the effect of diarrhoea in infants on the primary caregiver as well as the other household members. Household members complained about the sound of the babies crying and almost half of the mothers reported that they felt stressed or ashamed about the quality of air in their dwellings. One mother said that the smell was so bad that she could not eat her food because it caused her to vomit. The lack of basic necessities, for example the shortage of water in a number of households, intensified the struggle to cope with the diarrhoea. It was found that the burden of care fell mainly on the mothers of the babies with diarrhoea. The pressure experienced by some mothers seems to be related to the way they experience their identity. Mothers indicated that they felt responsible for tasks in and around the household, including the duty of caring for their children. This places a physical and emotional burden on the primary caregiver. Diarrhoea was the cause of tension and conflict in a number of households, not only because of inflated financial costs related to efforts to cope with the illness, but also because of differing views among household members regarding the most suitable treatment Western or traditional medicine. Mothers identified different causes of the diarrhoea, including teething, heat, wrong food and 'the problem of the fontanelle'. It became evident that some mothers believed that a sunken fontanelle was the cause of diarrhoea, and this was believed to be best treated by traditional healing methods. A vaccine against rotavirus diarrhoea could benefit the households in this research by: reducing the emotional burden of care on the mother; reducing the physical burden of care on the mother, and reducing the financial burden that childhood diarrhoea imposes on households. (author's) Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | QUALITATIVE RESEARCH | INFANT | FAMILY AND HOUSEHOLD | LOW INCOME POPULATION | DIARRHEA | QUALITY OF LIFE | ROTAVIRUS | VACCINES | CHILD CARE | FEMALE ROLE | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Sociocultural Factors | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Diseases | Social Welfare | Viral Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Child Rearing | Behavior | Social Behavior Document Number: 327280 |
| 28. Title: Reasons for multiple sexual partnerships: Perspectives of young people in Zambia. Author: Nshindano C; Maharaj P Source: African Journal of AIDS Research. 2008 May;7(1):37-44. Abstract: Epidemiological evidence so far suggests that multiple sexual partnerships are an important factor driving the HIV epidemic. Recently, there has been renewed emphasis on fidelity and partner-reduction in preventing HIV infections. Like many countries in sub-Saharan Africa, Zambia is facing a severe HIV epidemic and young people are heavily affected. This study explores youths' perspectives on multiple sexual partnerships in the context of HIV and AIDS. The study draws on four focus group discussions and 10 in-depth interviews with university students in Lusaka, Zambia, in 2006. While the young people were generally aware of the HIV-related risk associated with multiple sexual partnerships, they felt several obstacles prevented them from changing their sexual behaviour. Of special interest are their perceptions related to socio-economic disadvantages and cultural factors. (author's) Language: English Keywords: ZAMBIA | RESEARCH REPORT | QUALITATIVE RESEARCH | FOCUS GROUPS | INTERVIEWS | YOUTH | STUDENTS | UNIVERSITIES | HIV PREVENTION | MULTIPLE PARTNERS | RISK BEHAVIOR | AWARENESS | PERCEPTION | OBSTACLES | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | CULTURE | MALE ROLE | FEMALE ROLE | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Research Methodology | Data Collection | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Education | Schools | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Sexual Partners | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Knowledge | Sociocultural Factors | Psychological Factors | Organization and Administration | Economic Factors | Social Behavior Document Number: 326906 |
| 29. Peer Reviewed Title: Measuring the health effects of gender. Author: Phillips SP Source: Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. 2008 Apr;62(4):368-71. Abstract: The health effects of gender are mediated via group-level constraints of sex roles and norms, discrimination and marginalisation of individuals, and internalisation of the stresses of role discordance. Although gender is frequently a lens through which data are interpreted there are few composite measures that insert gender as an independent variable into research design. Instead, sex disaggregation of data is often conflated with gender, identifying statistically significant but sometimes clinically insignificant sex differences. To directly assess the impact of gender on wellbeing requires development of group and individual-level derived variables. At the ecological level such a summative variable could be composed of a selection of group-level measures of equality between sexes. This gender index could be used in ecological and individual-level studies of health outcomes. A quantitative indicator of gender role acceptance and of the personal effects of gender inequities could insert the often hidden variable of gender into individual-level clinical research. (author's) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | CRITIQUE | HEALTH | MEASUREMENT | HEALTH STATUS INDEXES | SEX FACTORS | GENDER ISSUES | INEQUALITIES | MALE ROLE | FEMALE ROLE | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Sociocultural Factors | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Social Behavior | Behavior Document Number: 325059 |
| 30. Peer Reviewed Title: Unintended pregnancy among rural young women: does gender role matter? Author: Pradhan MR Source: Journal of Family Welfare. 2008 Jun;54(1):1-13. Abstract: The present analysis reveals that nearly three-fifth of the women covered in the study had experienced unintended pregnancy. Age, education, awareness about timing of safe abortion, inter-spousal communication on reproductive matters besides perceived gender role of the women are a few variables that have shown to be important determinants of unintended pregnancy. However, highly educated women, women belonging to households of high SLI and those having higher equitable gender role indicating the strong patriarchal social structure and hence forced adherence of women to such practices. Through the process of socialization, women are perceived as an ideal if they have a child soon after marriage and is a woman in the true sense or a 'real woman'. Many of them were found to have poor knowledge of reproductive matters besides, low decisionmaking power in the household often leading to low negotiating powers on issues that involve their health and thus, are vulnerable to unintended pregnancy. Qualitative analysis further substantiated that women succumb to traditionally expected gender roles often resulting in early conception soon after marriage as a result of domestic violence, marital discord, tension to natal family, economic dependency, besides avoidance of social criticism of being barren. The experience of unintended pregnancy undermines the health of young women and certainly is a barrier to socioeconomic development of the family as well a society. As these ways of thinking are strongly associated with the sociocultural norms of the society, there is a need to sensitise people about its impact on reproductive health in general and of young women in particular. It can further be suggested that, information, education and communication (lEC) on gender equity, programmes such as formation of self-help-groups (SHG) to enhance the economic status of the young women, besides special youth centered programmes involving the youth as well as the community can help to better sexual and reproductive health of young women. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | QUALITATIVE RESEARCH | RURAL POPULATION | WOMEN | FEMALE ROLE | PREGNANCY, UNPLANNED | CULTURE | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | RISK FACTORS | SOCIOCULTURAL FACTORS | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Social Behavior | Behavior | Reproductive Behavior | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Health | Economic Factors | Marriage | Nuptiality | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 340181 |
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