1.  Peer Reviewed Title: Sexual and marital trajectories and HIV infection among ever-married women in rural Malawi. Author: Boileau C; Clark S; Bignami-Van Assche S; Poulin M; Reniers G; Watkins SC; Kohler HP; Heymann SJ Source: Sexually Transmitted Infections. 2009 Apr;85(Suppl 1):i27-i33. Abstract: Objective: To explore how sexual and marital trajectories are associated with HIV infection among ever-married women in rural Malawi. Methods: Retrospective survey data and HIV biomarker data for 926 ever-married women interviewed in the Malawi Diffusion and Ideational Change Project were used. The associations between HIV infection and four key life course transitions considered individually (age at sexual debut, premarital sexual activity, entry into marriage and marital disruption by divorce or death) were examined. These transitions were then sequenced to construct trajectories that represent the variety of patterns in the data. The association between different trajectories and HIV prevalence was examined, controlling for potentially confounding factors such as age and region. Results: Although each life course transition taken in isolation may be associated with HIV infection, their combined effect appeared to be conditional on the sequence in which they occurred. Although early sexual debut, not marrying one's first sexual partner and having a disrupted marriage each increased the likelihood of HIV infection, their risk was not additive. Women who both delayed sexual debut and did not marry their first partner are, once married, more likely to experience marital disruption and to be HIV-positive. Women who marry their first partner but who have sex at a young age, however, are also at considerable risk. Conclusions: These findings identify the potential of a life course perspective for understanding why some women become infected with HIV and others do not, as well as the differentials in HIV prevalence that originate from the sequence of sexual and marital transitions in one's life. The analysis suggests, however, the need for further data collection to permit a better examination of the mechanisms that account for variations in life course trajectories and thus in lifetime probabilities of HIV infection. Language: English Keywords: MALAWI | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | RETROSPECTIVE STUDIES | CLINICAL RESEARCH | EVER MARRIED | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | RURAL POPULATION | PREVALENCE | SEX BEHAVIOR | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | HIV INFECTIONS | FIRST INTERCOURSE | PREMARITAL SEX BEHAVIOR | DIVORCE | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Studies | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Population Characteristics | Measurement | Behavior | Marriage | Viral Diseases | Diseases Document Number: 340104 |
| 2. Peer Reviewed Title: PREVALENCE OF CONSANGUINEOUS MARRIAGES IN SYRIA. Author: Othman H; Saadat M Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2009 May 12;:1-8. Abstract: SummaryConsanguineous marriage is the union of individuals having at least one common ancestor. The present cross-sectional study was done in order to illustrate the prevalence and types of consanguineous marriages in the Syrian Arab Republic. Data on consanguineous marriages were collected using a simple questionnaire. The total number of couples in this study was 67,958 (urban areas: 36,574 couples; rural areas: 31,384 couples) from the following provinces: Damascus, Hamah, Tartous, Latakia, Al Raqa, Homs, Edlep and Aleppo. In each province urban and rural areas were surveyed. Consanguineous marriage was classified by the degree of relationship between couples: double first cousins (F=1/8), first cousins (F=1/16), second cousins (F=1/64) and beyond second cousins (F<1/64). The coefficient of inbreeding (F) was calculated for each couple and the mean coefficient of inbreeding (alpha) estimated for the population of each province, stratified by rural and urban areas. The results showed that the overall frequency of consanguinity was 30.3% in urban and 39.8% in rural areas. Total rate of consanguinity was found to be 35.4%. The equivalent mean inbreeding coefficient (alpha) was 0.0203 and 0.0265 in urban and rural areas, respectively. The mean proportion of consanguineous marriages ranged from 67.5% in Al Raqa province to 22.1% in Latakia province. The alpha-value ranged from 0.0358 to 0.0127 in these two provinces, respectively. The western and north-western provinces (including Tartous, Lattakia and Edlep) recorded lower levels of inbreeding than the central, northern and southern provinces. The overall alpha-value was estimated to be about 0.0236 for the studied populations. First cousin marriages (with 20.9%) were the most common type of consanguineous marriages, followed by double first cousin (with 7.8%) and second cousin marriages (with 3.3%), and beyond second cousin was the least common type. Language: English Keywords: SYRIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | HEALTH SURVEYS | COUPLES | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | CONSANGUINITY | PREVALENCE | HUMAN GEOGRAPHY | Developing Countries | Middle East | Research Methodology | Health | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Marriage | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Genetics | Biology | Measurement | Geography | Social Sciences | Science Document Number: 341478 |
| 3. Peer Reviewed Title: Sweeping changes in marriage, cohabitation and childbearing in Central and Eastern Europe: new insights from the developmental idealism framework Transformations radicales du mariage, de la cohabitation et de la cohabitation et de la procreation en Europe Centrale et Orientale: de nouvelles perspectives a partir de la conception ideationnelle du developpement. Author: Thornton A; Philipov D Source: European Journal of Population. 2009 May;25(2):123-156. Abstract: In Central and Eastern Europe following the political transformations of the late 1980s and early 1990s, there were dramatic declines in marriage and childbearing, significant increases in nonmarital cohabitation and childbearing, and a movement from reliance on abortion to a reliance on contraception for fertility limitation. Although many explanations have been offered for these trends, we offer new explanations based on ideational influences and the intersection of these ideational influences with structural factors. We focus on the political, economic, social, and cultural histories of the region, with particular emphasis on how countries in the region have interacted with and been influenced by Western European and North American countries. Our explanations emphasize the role of developmental models in guiding change in the region, suggesting that developmental idealism influenced family and demographic changes following the political transformations. Developmental idealism provides beliefs that modern family systems help to produce modern political and economic accomplishments, and it helps establish the importance of freedom and equality as human rights in both the public and private spheres. The disintegration of the governments and the fall of the iron curtain in the late 1980s and early 1990s brought new understanding about social, economic, and family circumstances in the West, increasing consumption aspirations and expectations which clashed with both old economic realities and the dramatic declines in economic circumstances. In addition, the dissolution of the former governments removed or weakened systems supporting the bearing and rearing of children; and the legitimacy of the former governments and their programs was largely destroyed, thereby removing government support for old norms and patterns of behavior. In addition, the attacks of previous decades on the religious institutions in the region had in many places left these institutions weak. During this period, many openly reached out to embrace the values, living standards, and economic, political, and familial systems of the West. And, the thirst for freedom-and its considerable expansion-operated in personal and familial as well as political and economic realms. These dramatic changes combined together to produce the many changes occurring in family and demographic behavior. Language: English Keywords: EUROPE, CENTRAL | EUROPE, EASTERN | HISTORICAL REVIEW | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | CONSENSUAL UNION | FERTILITY DECLINE | SOCIAL CHANGE | POLITICAL FACTORS | ECONOMIC CONDITIONS | SOCIALISM | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | VALUE ORIENTATION | Developing Countries | Europe | Developed Countries | Marriage | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Fertility Changes | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Sociocultural Factors | Macroeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Political Systems | Contraception | Family Planning | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 340171 |
| 4. Peer Reviewed Title: The effects of female genital mutilation on the onset of sexual activity and marriage in Guinea. Author: Van Rossem R; Gage AJ Source: Archives of Sexual Behavior. 2009 Apr;38(2):178-85. Abstract: Female genital mutilation (FGM) is almost universal in Guinea and practiced by all ethnic and religious groups and social classes, although the prevalence of the various types of FGM varies by socioeconomic group. A common explanation for FGM practices is that they contribute to the social control over female sexuality and enhance the marriageability of women. These claims were tested using the 1999 Guinea Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) (N = 6753). Event history techniques were used to examine the effect of type of FGM on the age at first sex and the age at first marriage and logistic regression for the effect of FGM on premarital sex. The results showed that the type of FGM had a significant zero-order effect on the age at first marriage and the prevalence of premarital sex, but not on the age at first sex. However, these effects became non-significant once controls for age, religion, ethnicity, education, residence, and wealth were added to the model. Variations in sexual behavior, therefore, were unrelated to type of FGM, but reflected differences in the social characteristics of the participants. Language: English Keywords: GUINEA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | EVENT HISTORY ANALYSIS | STATISTICAL REGRESSION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | FEMALE GENITAL CUTTING | FIRST INTERCOURSE | AGE FACTORS | MARRIAGE AGE | PREMARITAL SEX BEHAVIOR | PREVALENCE | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Demographic Analysis | Data Analysis | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Marriage | Nuptiality | Harmful Traditional Practices | Traditional Health Practices | Culture | Sociocultural Factors | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Population Characteristics | Measurement Document Number: 331065 |
| 5. Peer Reviewed Title: Cambodia 2005: Results from the Demographic and Health Survey. Source: Studies in Family Planning. 2008 Jun;39(2):141-146. Abstract: The Cambodia Demographic and Health Survey 2005 (CDHS 2005) was conducted by the National Institute of Public Health and National Institute of Statistics (Cambodia) with technical assistance from ORC Macro. Data for the nationally representative CDHS 2005 were collected from 14,243 households, and complete interviews were conducted with 16,823 women aged 15-49 and 6,731 men aged 15-49. The fieldwork took place from 9 September 2005 to 7 March 2006. The summary statistics presented below were taken from the Cambodia country report,1 with exceptions as noted. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: CAMBODIA | TABLES AND CHARTS | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | KAP SURVEYS | POPULATION | FERTILITY RATE | DIFFERENTIAL FERTILITY | CONTRACEPTION | FERTILITY PREFERENCES | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | INFANT MORTALITY | NUTRITION INDEXES | HIV PREVENTION | Developing Countries | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Family Planning | Marriage | Nuptiality | Mortality | Nutrition | Health | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases Document Number: 326975 |
| 6. Peer Reviewed Title: Rwanda 2005: Results from the Demographic and Health Survey. Source: Studies in Family Planning. 2008 Jun;39(2):147-152. Abstract: The Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey 2005 (RDHS-III) was conducted by the Institut National de la Statistique du Rwanda (INSR) with technical assistance from ORC Macro. Data for the nationally representative RDHS-III were collected from 10,272 households, and complete interviews were conducted with 11,321 women aged 15-49 and 4,820 men aged 15-59. The fieldwork took place from 28 February to 13 July 2005. The summary statistics presented below were taken from the Rwanda country report,1 with exceptions as noted. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: RWANDA | TABLES AND CHARTS | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | KAP SURVEYS | POPULATION | FERTILITY RATE | DIFFERENTIAL FERTILITY | CONTRACEPTION | FERTILITY PREFERENCES | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | INFANT MORTALITY | NUTRITION INDEXES | HIV PREVENTION | Developing Countries | Africa, Central | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Family Planning | Marriage | Nuptiality | Mortality | Nutrition | Health | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases Document Number: 326976 |
7.  Title: Socio-demographic analysis of youth in the Caribbean: a three country case study. Author: Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean [ECLAC] Source: Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean [ECLAC], 2008 Nov. 20 p. Abstract: The study provides an analysis of 2000 census data from Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, and Saint Lucia, with a focus on children, youth, and young families. Special attention is given to the description of their living arrangements and household composition, religion, health, well-being, migration, education and profession, economic activities, civil status, and reproductive patterns. Language: English Keywords: CARIBBEAN | SUMMARY REPORT | CASE STUDIES | YOUTH | LIVING ARRANGEMENTS | MIGRATION | HEALTH | EDUCATION | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | REPRODUCTIVE BEHAVIOR | YOUTH PROGRAMS | Developing Countries | Americas | Studies | Research Methodology | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Population Dynamics | Marriage | Nuptiality | Fertility | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 339991 |
| 8. Title: Iraq Family Health Survey 2006/7. Author: Iraq. Ministry of Health; Iraq. Central Organization for Statistics and Information Technology; Iraq. Kurdistan. Ministry of Health; Iraq. Kurdistan. Regional Statistics Office; World Health Organization [WHO] Source: [Amman, Jordan], WHO, [2008]. [64] p. Abstract: The Iraq Family Health Survey (IFHS) 2006/7 is a nationally representative survey of 9,345 households and 14,675 women of reproductive age and covers all governorates in Iraq. This is the second nationally representative health survey since the Family Gulf Survey in 1989, although it is the first survey to disseminate the results. The IFHS 2006/7 was conducted in the central and southern governorates during August and September 2006, in Anbar during October and November 2006, while fieldwork in the Kurdistan region was carried out during February and March 2007. The survey had gone through a detailed and intensive planning and preparatory phases which was particularly important given the dire security situation in Iraq at the time of the survey. Not only were rigorous training and pre-testing undertaken, but a planning approach based on a number of different scenarios was adopted to respond to anticipated challenges. All interview teams were carefully supervised and given continuous support through out the period of the survey. The principle objective of the survey is to provide critical information for policy-makers and programme managers working in health and development. It complements other surveys recently conducted in Iraq on the situation of women and children, namely the Iraq Child and Maternal Mortality Survey (ICMMS 1999), the Iraq Living Conditions Survey ILCS 2004, and the Multiple Indicators Cluster Survey MICS III 2006. Also the survey results will present data on a wide range of indicators related to women's and family health. It is also the first national survey ever conducted to present data on adult mortality, including the causes of deaths. The IFHS is the first national survey in Iraq to investigate domestic violence, as well as chronic illnesses. Detailed information was also collected on health expenditures and health care seeking behaviour, as well as a range of other health and demographic indicators. Blood test was carried out to measure the level of anaemia among women of reproductive age including pregnant and lactating women. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: IRAQ | RESEARCH REPORT | HEALTH SURVEYS | HEALTH | HEALTH STATUS INDEXES | HEALTH AND WELFARE PLANNING | MORTALITY | MORBIDITY | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | ANEMIA | MENTAL HEALTH | TOBACCO USE | PREGNANCY OUTCOMES | HIV | AIDS | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES | KNOWLEDGE | UTILIZATION OF HEALTH CARE | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | Middle East | Developing Countries | Social Planning | Economic Factors | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Diseases | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Behavior | Pregnancy | Reproduction | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Marriage | Nuptiality Document Number: 327824 |
| 9. Title: Swaziland Demographic and Health Survey 2006-07. Author: Swaziland. Central Statistical Office; Macro International. MEASURE DHS Source: Mbabane, Swaziland, Central Statistical Office, 2008 May. [506] p. Abstract: This detailed report presents the major findings of the 2006-07 Swaziland Demographic and Health Survey (2006-07 SDHS). The 2006-07 SDHS is the first survey of its kind to be undertaken in Swaziland. It was a nationwide survey aimed at generating estimates at the country level, regional level, and for urban and rural areas. The survey was commissioned by the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and implemented by the Central Statistical Office. Fieldwork was carried out between July 2006 and March 2007. The primary objective of the 2006-07 SDHS was to collect up-to-date information for policymakers, planners, researchers, and programme managers that would provide guidance in the planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of population and health programmes in Swaziland. Specifically, the 2006-07 SDHS collected information on fertility levels, marriage, sexual activity, fertility preferences, awareness and use of family planning methods, breastfeeding practices, nutritional status of women and young children, childhood and maternal mortality, care and protection of youth, and awareness and behaviour regarding HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In addition, it collected information on malaria, the use of mosquito nets, and the prevalence of HIV in the population age two years and above. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: SWAZILAND | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | FERTILITY RATE | FERTILITY CHANGES | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | REPRODUCTIVE BEHAVIOR | SEX BEHAVIOR | FERTILITY PREFERENCES | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | FAMILY PLANNING | AWARENESS | BREASTFEEDING | MATERNAL NUTRITION | CHILD NUTRITION | CHILD MORTALITY | MATERNAL MORTALITY | ADOLESCENT HEALTH | HIV | PREVALENCE | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES | MALARIA | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Marriage | Nuptiality | Behavior | Contraception | Knowledge | Sociocultural Factors | Infant Nutrition | Nutrition | Health | Mortality | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Measurement | Research Methodology | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Parasitic Diseases Document Number: 327506 |
| 10. Peer Reviewed Title: Modernization or cultural maintenance: The practice of consanguineous marriage in Iran. Author: Abbasi-Shavazi MJ; McDonald P; Hosseini-Chavoshi M Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2008 Nov;40(6):911-933. Abstract: Consanguineous marriage has been the culturally preferred form of marriage in Iran. This paper examines the extent to which education, urbanization and changes in modes of economic production have affected the incidence of consanguineous marriage and attitudes towards consanguineous marriages. The 2002 Iran Fertility Transition Survey conducted in the four provinces of Gilan, Sistan and Baluchistan, Yazd and West Azarbaijan provides information on the degree of relationship of marriage partners from around 6550 ever-married women aged 15-49. Attitudinal data were also obtained. Overall, the level of marriage to biological relatives ranged from 23% in Gilan to 78% in Sistan and Baluchistan. The paper finds that the practice of marriage to biological relatives has remained surprisingly resilient in the face of modernizing influences and that ethnicity, province and area of residence remain important determinants. On the other hand, attitudes have shifted towards marriage with a non-relative. Anthropological research would illuminate the processes of consanguineous marriage in Iran. (author's) Language: English Keywords: IRAN | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | CONSANGUINITY | SOCIAL CHANGE | MODERNIZATION | ATTITUDES | ETHNIC GROUPS | CULTURAL BACKGROUND | Developing Countries | Middle East | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Marriage | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Genetics | Biology | Sociocultural Factors | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Population Characteristics Document Number: 325830 |
| 11. Title: Is consanguineous marriage religiously encouraged? Author reply [letter] Author: Akrami SM Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2008 Jan;40(1):155. Abstract: I thank Dr M. Saadat for taking the time to carefully read this article and for making helpful comments. After studying his input, I believe he is in agreement with our conclusion that there is no encouragement of consanguineous marriage in the Islamic context. As he stated, it highlights the importance of the historical background of such practice in some parts of Iran. However, I believe this statement may not be applicable to the entire country. He is right with his second comment regarding Imam Ali and the Fatima family relationship. (full text) Language: English Keywords: IRAN | CRITIQUE | COUPLES | ISLAM | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | CONSANGUINITY | RELIGIOUS ASPECTS | Developing Countries | Middle East | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Religion | Marriage | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Genetics | Biology Document Number: 322458 |
| 12. Title: The psychosocial profile of Bedouin Arab women living in polygamous and monogamous marriages. Author: Al-Krenawi A; Slonim-Nevo V Source: Families in Society. 2008 Jan-Mar;89(1):139-149. Abstract: This study examining the psychosocial profile of Bedouin Arab Women living in polygamous and monogamous marriages found that women in polygamous marriages reported lower levels of self-esteem and higher levels of somatization, depression, anxiety, hostility, paranoid ideation, more problematic family functioning, less marital satisfaction, and more problematic mother-child relationships than women in monogamous marriages. The sample consisted of 315 women, 156 from polygamous and 159 from monogamous families. The respondents completed the Self-Esteem scale (SE), The Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI), The McMaster Family Assessment Device (FAD), The Enrich questionnaire and the Index of Parental Attitudes. The polygamous family structure and the economic difficulties widespread, apparently constitutes a substantial contribution to the polygamous household's impaired family functioning. (author's) Language: English Keywords: ISRAEL | RESEARCH REPORT | QUESTIONNAIRES | WOMEN | ETHNIC GROUPS | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | POLYGAMY | MONOGAMY | CULTURE | SOCIAL CHANGE | PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS | MENTAL HEALTH | QUALITY OF LIFE | Developed Countries | Middle East | Demographic Factors | Population | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Marriage | Nuptiality | Sociocultural Factors | Behavior | Health | Social Welfare | Economic Factors Document Number: 325388 |
| 13. Title: Reforming marriage practices in Bangladesh. Author: Amin S Source: New York, New York, Population Council, 2008 Jan. [4] p. (Promoting Healthy, Safe, and Productive Transitions to Adulthood Brief No. 31) Abstract: Marriage customs in Bangladesh vary by region, complicating national-level efforts to eliminate some of the more harmful practices, such as early marriage and dowry demands, that undermine the status of women. Efforts to reform such a complex and multidimensional institution as marriage must consider economic concerns, social traditions, and social activism. Dowry demands-in addition to exacting an intolerable financial toll on poor households-have in extreme cases led to gruesome crimes, such as murder or assaults on women whose families could not meet escalating dowry costs. Early marriage-often involving girls as young as 10-has been widely recognized in Bangladesh and elsewhere as a human rights offense. The Bangladesh penal code includes many sanctions against harmful marriage practices: The Child Marriage Restraint Act dates back to 1921; dowry payments were first banned in 1980, and sanctions were further strengthened in 1985. Men who ask for dowry at marriage can face fines and imprisonment. Yet because both age at marriage and dowry are related to competitive processes in the marriage market, the brute force approach of legal bans and sanctions has not proven sufficient to curtail these harmful practices. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: BANGLADESH | PROGRESS REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | DEMOGRAPHIC SURVEYS | DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | ADOLESCENTS, FEMALE | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | HARMFUL TRADITIONAL PRACTICES | CHILD MARRIAGE | DOWRY | WOMEN'S RIGHTS | SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Adolescents | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Marriage | Nuptiality | Traditional Health Practices | Culture | Sociocultural Factors | Human Rights | Political Factors | Crime | Social Problems | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors Document Number: 326789 |
| 14. Peer Reviewed Title: Polygamy and the use of contraceptives. Author: Audu B; Yahya S; Geidam A; Abdussalam H; Takai I Source: International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics. 2008 Apr;101(1):88-92. Abstract: The objectives was to compare contraceptive use among women in monogamous and polygamous marriages in Nigeria. Structured questionnaires administered to married women enquired about their marriage type, sociodemographic characteristics, and contraceptive use. Of the 532 respondents, 33.6% were in polygamous marriages. There was a statistically significant association between monogamy and nonutilization of contraception (P=0.03); however, women in polygamous marriages were more likely not to use contraception when they were older than 35 years, had 4 or more living children, had no male child, had 3 or more female children, or lived in rural areas. There was also a statistically significant association between nonutilization of contraception and number of male children of co-wives (P=0.003), number of female children of co-wives (P=0.05), and use of contraception by co-wives (P=0.002). Polygamy influences contraceptive use and the role of co-wives in this regard merits further study. (author's) Language: English Keywords: NIGERIA | RESEARCH REPORT | QUESTIONNAIRES | WOMEN | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | POLYGAMY | MONOGAMY | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE DETERMINANTS | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Demographic Factors | Population | Marriage | Nuptiality | Contraception | Family Planning Document Number: 325382 |
| 15. Title: Project on a mechanism to address laws that discriminate against women. Author: Banda F Source: [Geneva, Switzerland], United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Women’s Rights and Gender Unit, 2008 Mar 6. [167] p. Abstract: The aim of the project was to examine the advisability of creating a new mechanism to address laws that discriminate against women. The terms of reference specified two key objectives. The first was to overview existing UN mechanisms to ascertain the extent to which they addressed the issue of discriminatory laws. This involved interviewing UN human rights and agency officials working in both Geneva and New York and also reviewing the reports and jurisprudence of human rights committees and special procedure mechanisms. The second was to try to get national data on laws that discriminate against women. This was to be done by means of a questionnaire. On the basis of the data gathered, the consultant was required to advise on whether a special mechanism addressing discriminatory laws was needed. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | RESEARCH REPORT | EVALUATION | WOMEN | SEX DISCRIMINATION | LEGISLATION | INEQUALITIES | TREATIES | WOMEN'S RIGHTS | CHILD MARRIAGE | GENDER RELATIONS | ARRANGED MARRIAGE | HARMFUL TRADITIONAL PRACTICES | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | EMPLOYMENT | Demographic Factors | Population | Social Discrimination | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Political Factors | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Human Rights | Marriage | Nuptiality | Gender Issues | Traditional Health Practices | Culture | Macroeconomic Factors Document Number: 325464 |
| 16. Peer Reviewed Title: Changing family formation in Nepal: Marriage, cohabitation and first sexual intercourse. Author: Caltabiano M; Castiglioni M Source: International Family Planning Perspectives. 2008 Mar;34(1):30-39. Abstract: In Nepal, marriage occurs at a relatively young age and arranged weddings are widespread. However, recent changes in the family formation process and the timing of first sexual intercourse suggest that a transformation may be underway. Data on marriage, cohabitation and first sexual intercourse from the 2001 Nepalese Demographic and Health Survey were used to describe the family formation process. The sequence of these events and the intervals between them were explored for currently married men and women. Hazard models were used to identify factors associated with behavioral changes over time. The average age at marriage among women married before age 20 increased from 13.7 years for those born in 1952-1956 to 15.6 years for those born in 1977-1981,while remaining relatively stable for men married before age 25 (17.3 years for the 1942-1946 birth cohort to 17.7 for the 1972-1976 birth cohort). After individual and couple characteristics were controlled for, younger age at interview was associatedwith greater odds of simultaneous marriage and cohabitation for both genders (odds ratios,1.3-1.7).Younger age at interview was also associated with premarital sex among men-those aged 39 or younger had significantly higher risks than older men of having had premarital sex, with odds ratios rising from 1.6 among those aged 35-39 to 1.8 among those aged 15-24. It is important not only to promote education as a means of delaying marriage and childbearing, but also to implement programs and services that prevent reproductive health problems for young married couples. (author's) Language: English Keywords: NEPAL | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | MARRIAGE POSTPONEMENT | FIRST INTERCOURSE | ARRANGED MARRIAGE | SOCIAL CHANGE | MODERNIZATION | PREMARITAL SEX BEHAVIOR | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Marriage | Nuptiality | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 326105 |
| 17. Title: International migration and educational assortative mating in Mexico and the United States. Author: Choi KH; Mare RD Source: Los Angeles, California, University of California - Los Angeles, California Center for Population Research, 2008 Feb. 40 p. (California Center for Population Research On-Line Working Paper Series CCPR-004-08) Abstract: Using data from the 2000 U.S. and Mexican Censuses, this paper examines the relationship between migration and marriage patterns by describing how the distributions of marital statuses and assortative mating patterns vary by individual and community experiences of migration. In Mexico, migrants and those living in areas with high levels of migration are less likely to marry a spouse with the same level of education. Return migrants from the U.S. to Mexico may use their improved economic position to marry up. In the U.S., Mexican migrants are also less likely to enter into homogamous unions; however, the odds of homogamy do not vary by couple level of migration. Migrants may expand their pool of potential spouses to include non-migrants and nonmigrants tend to be better educated than Mexican migrants. With individual migration experiences, the odds of marrying outside of one's education group increase the most among the least educated. With community level of migration in Mexico, the odds of marrying outside of the group increases the most among the best educated. These findings suggest that preferences for homogamy are disrupted by migration. (author's) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | MEXICO | RESEARCH REPORT | CENSUS | MIGRANTS | MIGRATION | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Developing Countries | Population Statistics | Research Methodology | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Marriage | Nuptiality | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors Document Number: 325784 |
| 18. Title: Whispers to voices: Gender and social transformation in Bangladesh. Author: Das MB; Amin S; Das Gupta M; Johnson K; Hossain A Source: Dhaka, Bangladesh, World Bank, South Asia Region, South Asia Sustainable Development Department, 2008 Mar. [162] p. (Bangladesh Development Series Paper No. 22) Abstract: Bangladesh stands out as the shining new example in South Asia of a poor country achieving impressive gains in gender equality. After Sri Lanka and the Indian state of Kerala, here is a country that had been famously written off by Henry Kissinger as a "basket case," which now dwarfs India and Pakistan in many areas. Between 1971 and 2004, Bangladesh halved its fertility rates. In much of the country today, girls' secondary school attendance exceeds that of boys. The gender gap in infant mortality has been closed. The micro-credit revolution continues to boost women's solidarity groups and earning potential, and vast numbers of young women are leaving their villages to work in garment factories where, in earlier generations, young women were rarely seen outside their homes. Bangladesh's success has been widely celebrated and analyzed - even posed as a puzzle. For how could a country with such low per capita income achieve such heights? All this achieved, moreover, in a cultural context widely believed to be repressive to women. While there remains more to be done in terms of increasing women's labor force participation, reducing and punishing violence, increasing political participation and visibility in leadership positions, we also need to understand how these gains came about. In particular, we need to appreciate how policies and opportunities can change behaviors and norms widely perceived to emphasize seclusion and to relegate women to the home. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: BANGLADESH | PROGRESS REPORT | EVALUATION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | GENDER ISSUES | SOCIAL MOBILIZATION | SOCIAL CHANGE | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | WOMEN'S STATUS | MATERNAL HEALTH | EDUCATION | EMPLOYMENT | DECISION MAKING | PARTICIPATION | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Marriage | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Socioeconomic Factors | Health | Macroeconomic Factors | Behavior | Social Behavior | Crime | Social Problems Document Number: 326309 |
| 19. Peer Reviewed Title: Italy: Delayed adaptation of social institutions to changes in family behaviour. Author: De Rose A; Racioppi F; Zanatta AL Source: Demographic Research. 2008 Jul 1;19(19):665-704. Abstract: Considering its very low fertility and high age at childbearing, Italy stands alone in the European context and can hardly be compared with other countries, even those in the Southern region. The fertility decline occurred without any radical change in family formation. Individuals still choose (religious) marriage for leaving their parental home and rates of marital dissolution and subsequent step-family formation are low. Marriage is being postponed and fewer people marry. The behaviours of young people are particularly alarming. There is a delay in all life cycle stages: end of education, entry into the labour market, exit from the parental family, entry into union, and managing an independent household. Changes in family formation and childbearing are constrained and slowed down by a substantial delay (or even failure) with which the institutional and cultural framework has adapted to changes in economic and social conditions, in particular to the growth of the service sector, the increase in female employment and the female level of education. In a Catholic country that has been led for almost half a century by a political party with a Catholic ideology, the paucity of attention to childhood and youth seems incomprehensible. Social policies focus on marriage-based families already formed and on the phases of life related to pregnancy, delivery, and the first months of a newborn's life, while forming a family and childbearing choices are considered private affairs and neglected. (author's) Language: English Keywords: ITALY | RESEARCH REPORT | FERTILITY DETERMINANTS | FERTILITY DECLINE | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | MARRIAGE POSTPONEMENT | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | YOUTH | FAMILY CHARACTERISTICS | EMPLOYMENT | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | WOMEN | RELIGIOUS ASPECTS | Developed Countries | Europe, Southern | Europe | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Fertility Changes | Marriage | Nuptiality | Economic Factors | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Macroeconomic Factors | Socioeconomic Status | Religion Document Number: 327727 |
| 20. Peer Reviewed Title: Rapid fertility decline in Iran: Analysis of intermediate variables. Author: Erfani A; McQuillan K Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2008 May;40(3):459-478. Abstract: The remarkable decline in fertility in Iran, which saw the total fertility rate fall from 7 children per woman in 1986 to 2 in 2000, has received only limited analysis in the demographic literature. Using the 2000 Iran Demographic and Health Survey and Bongaarts' age-specific fertility model, this paper examines the role of the major proximate determinants of fertility in bringing about the rapid decrease in fertility in Iran. The analysis indicates that contraception had the largest effect on fertility, accounting for 61% of the reduction in fertility from its theoretical maximum. The fertility-inhibiting effect of marriage patterns accounted for an additional 31% reduction, and was most important among the young. Further analysis of contraceptive behaviour suggests that the current period fertility rate of 2-0 children per woman is an outcome of a synchronization of delaying and spacing of births among younger women with stopping of childbearing among women in the middle and late reproductive ages. The policy implications of the results are discussed. (author's) Language: English Keywords: IRAN | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | THEORETICAL MODELS | AGE SPECIFIC FERTILITY RATE | FERTILITY DECLINE | FERTILITY DETERMINANTS | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | BIRTH SPACING | Developing Countries | Middle East | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Research Methodology | Fertility Rate | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Fertility Changes | Contraception | Family Planning | Marriage | Nuptiality Document Number: 325414 |
| 21. Peer Reviewed Title: Opinions on early-age marriage and marriage customs among Kurdish-speaking women in southeast Turkey. Author: Ertem M; Kocturk T Source: Journal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care. 2008 Jul;34(3):147-152. Abstract: For women, marriage before the age of 18 years has adverse consequences for physical, mental and emotional well-being and constitutes a barrier for continued education. According to a national survey, about 50% of all women in Eastern Turkey were aged under 18 years at first marriage. This study explored women?s opinions and experiences of early marriage and culture-specific marriage customs in the province of Diyarbakir, a region of Turkey populated mostly by people of Kurdish ethnicity. A random sample of 966 women aged 15 years or older living in urban and rural areas of the province completed a questionnaire on age at marriage and social status. Qualitative data on women?s opinions and experiences were also collected through focus group interviews with 90 women. The frequency of early marriage ranged from 19% in the youngest age group to 63% in women aged 60 years or older. Analysis of focus group interviews through a qualitative modified content method showed that girls were considered marriageable some years after the menarche and considerations regarding the protection of family honour were key factors leading parents to arrange the early marriage of their daughters, sometimes without their consent. Some culture-specific marriage customs included cradle betrothal, cousin marriage and berdel (exchange of brides between two families). There is a need for public health and family planning workers to create greater awareness of the adverse consequences of early marriage through parental arrangements. (author's) Language: English Keywords: TURKEY | RESEARCH REPORT | QUESTIONNAIRES | FOCUS GROUPS | WOMEN | MARRIAGE AGE | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | ARRANGED MARRIAGE | CONSANGUINITY | CULTURE | ATTITUDES | Developing Countries | Europe, Southeastern | Europe | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Marriage | Nuptiality | Genetics | Biology | Sociocultural Factors | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 327552 |
| 22. Peer Reviewed Title: The long-term social and economic impact of HIV on the spouses of infected individuals in northern Malawi. Author: Floyd S; Crampin AC; Glynn JR; Mwenebabu M; Mnkhondia S Source: Tropical Medicine and International Health. 2008 Apr;13(4):1-12. Abstract: The objective was to assess the social and economic impact of HIV-related illness and death on the spouses of HIV-infected individuals. From population-based surveys in the 1980s in Karonga district, northern Malawi, 197 'index individuals' were identified as HIV-positive. A total of 396 HIV-negative 'index individuals' were selected as a comparison group. These individuals, and their spouses and children, were followed up in 1998-2000, in a retrospective cohort study. All analyses compared spouses of HIV-positive indexes with those of HIV-negative indexes. By 1998-2000, most marriages involving an HIV-positive index individual had ended in widowhood. Twenty-Six percent of the wives of HIV-positive index men experienced household dissolution precipitated by widowhood, compared with 5% of the wives of HIV-negative index men. Corresponding percentages for husbands of index women were 14% and 1%. Widow inheritance was uncommon. The remarriage rate among separated or widowed wives of HIV-positive index men was half that of such wives of HIV-negative index men. About 30% of surviving wives of HIV-positive index men were household heads at the time of follow-up, compared with 5% of such wives of HIV-negative index men. Almost all these women were widows who lost their husband when greater than 35 years old, and they had relatively few household assets. The social and economic impact of HIV on the spouses of HIV-infected individuals in rural northern Malawi is substantial. Interventions that strengthen society's ability to absorb and support widows and widowers, and their dependents, without necessarily involving the traditional coping mechanism of remarriage, are essential. (author's) Language: English Keywords: MALAWI | RESEARCH REPORT | RETROSPECTIVE STUDIES | COHORT ANALYSIS | HIV | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | SPOUSE | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS | LONGTERM EFFECTS | FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Studies | Research Methodology | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Economic Factors | Behavior | Time Factors | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Marriage | Nuptiality Document Number: 324189 |
| 23. Peer Reviewed Title: Twenty years' demographic change in sedentes and migrants of an international migrant-sending community in Tonga. Author: Fukuyama S; Watanabe C; Umezaki M; Ohtsuka R Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2008;:1-11. Abstract: In the Kingdom of Tonga, migration to overseas developed countries has prevailed. To elucidate the effects of migration on population dynamics, an interview survey was conducted in the migrant-sending community of Kolovai, in the outer region of Tongatapu Island. All births, deaths, marriages and in- and out-migrations that took place between 1983 and 2002 were recorded for all members of the 'Kolovai population', consisting of persons who had lived in this community for at least a one-year period during this 20 years. The 'Kolovai population' members, numbering 1184 (564 males and 620 females), were divided into three groups based on residence at the end of each year, i.e. Kolovai (called KK), other places in Tonga (KT) or overseas countries (KO). The KK population decreased from 774 in 1982 to 570 in 2002, owing mostly to an increase of 167 persons as the natural balance and a decrease of 324 persons as the balance of international migration. Comparison of total fertility rate (TFR) between KK and KO women revealed that the mean TFR of the former decreased from 3.460 in the earlier 10-year period (1983-1992) to 2.240 in the later 10-year period (1993-2002), while that of the latter was more than 3.5 in both 10-year periods. This difference was largely due to the decrease in the proportion married among KK women. If the current trends of international migration and fertility continue, the population of Kolovai will be reduced and its age composition will become cylinder-shaped in the near future. (author's) Language: English Keywords: TONGA | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | INTERNATIONAL MIGRATION | POPULATION DYNAMICS | DEMOGRAPHIC IMPACT | FERTILITY CHANGES | AGE SPECIFIC FERTILITY RATE | AGE DISTRIBUTION CHANGES | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | Developing Countries | Oceania | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Migration | Demographic Factors | Population | Fertility | Fertility Rate | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Age Distribution | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Marriage | Nuptiality Document Number: 327010 |
| 24. Peer Reviewed Title: Dramatic fertility transition in Mongolia and its determinants: the demise of the pronatalist state. Author: Gereltuya A Source: Asia Pacific Population Journal. Aug;23(2):81-99. Abstract: The move from a centrally controlled economy to a market-driven economy has had strong political implications for family planning and fertility in Mongolia. Under socialist rule, Mongolia had a strong pronatalist population policy under which those families having children were provided with generous benefits. The changes made to these policies have had a considerable impact on fertility and family formation in Mongolia. In the mid-1970s, the country started to experience a dramatic decrease in the level of fertility, which intensified when the country moved towards a market economy. The country experienced a drop in its total fertility rate (TFR) from 7.2 children per woman (of reproductive age) in 1975 to about 3 children in 1995, and it has remained constant at about 2.3 children since that time. Relatively few studies have been carried out on fertility changes in Mongolia with explanations about their causes, primarily owing to a lack of data sources. The aim of this paper is to examine fertility changes in Mongolia with respect to the changes in population policies and changes in the proximate determinants of fertility that have occurred since the mid-1970s. Language: English Keywords: MONGOLIA | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC TRANSITION | POPULATION POLICY | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | ABORTION LAW | FERTILITY RATE | FERTILITY DECLINE | Developing Countries | Asia, Northern | Asia | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Marriage | Nuptiality | Contraception | Family Planning | Fertility Control, Postconception | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Fertility Changes Document Number: 331309 Notification |
| 25. Peer Reviewed Title: Albania: Trends and patterns, proximate determinants and policies of fertility change. Author: Gjonca A; Aassve A; Mencarini L Source: Demographic Research. 2008 Jul 1;19(11):261-292. Special Collection 7: Childbearing Trends and Policies in Europe. Abstract: For a very long time, Albania has had one of the highest levels of fertility in Europe: in 2002 the total fertility rate of 2.2 children per woman was the highest in Europe. Although this current level is high, the country has experienced a rapid fertility reduction during the last 50 years: a TFR decline from 7 to 2.2. This reduction has occurred in the absence of modern contraception and abortion, which indicates the significance of investments in the social agenda during the communist regime that produced policies with indirect effects on fertility. Most significant of these were policies focused on education, in particular on female education. Social and demographic settings for a further fertility reduction in Albania have been present since 1990. Contraception and abortion have been legalized and available since the early 1990s, but knowledge of their use is still not widespread in the country, largely due to the interplay between traditional and modern norms of Albanian society. This chapter points out that future fertility levels will be determined not only by new policies that might be introduced, but predominantly by the balance of this interplay. (author's) Language: English Keywords: ALBANIA | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | FERTILITY DECLINE | FERTILITY CHANGES | FERTILITY DETERMINANTS | ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT | SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT | INTERMEDIATE VARIABLES | INTERNATIONAL MIGRATION | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | POPULATION POLICY | SOCIAL POLICY | CULTURE | FAMILY PLANNING POLICY | Europe, Southeastern | Europe | Developing Countries | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Economic Factors | Migration | Marriage | Nuptiality | Contraception | Family Planning | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 327530 |
| 26. Title: Determinants of family size in a Gulf Arab state: a comparison between two areas. Author: Hamadeh RR; Al-Roomi K; Masuadi E Source: Journal of the Royal Society of Health. 2008 Sep;128(5):226-32. Abstract: AIMS: The rapid economic transition in the Gulf Arab countries has resulted in marked changes in fertility and marriage patterns and a decrease in the number of children per family. Yet little is known about the determinants of family size in urban and less urban areas. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out on 450 Kuwaiti women aged 20-60 years who attended health care centres in Al Asima and Al Jahra governorates. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered through face-to-face interview which included variables on socio-demographic characteristics, family size, actual and ideal spacing, marriage related variables, health conditions and utilization of health services. Both univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the factors that affect family size. RESULTS: The socio-economic indicators were significantly better in Al Asima, the capital, than in Al Jahra, a less urbanized area. On average, family size for the total sample was 5.97 +/- 0.114 with a larger size (6.27 +/- 0.242) in Al Jahra than in Al Asima (5.80 +/- 0.118) but without a significant difference. Al Jahra women reported a larger number of deliveries and past pregnancies but a lower usage of contraceptive measures. The total fertility rate was 3.65 in Al Asima, 3.84 in Al Jahra and 3.71 births per woman in the total population. Family size was inversely related to the educational level of women and their husbands. Currently employed women had a smaller family size (5.22 +/- 0.119) than the unemployed (6.81 +/- 0.187); p < 0.0005. Health problems in the interviewee or her husband played a minor role in the decision to have more children. Families where the husband was the decision-maker on the number of children had a significantly larger family size (6.91 +/- 0.451) than families where the couple both participated in the decision (5.83 +/- 0.129; p = 0.032). The duration of marriage, ideal number of children, age of women at last delivery, number of rooms and the crowding index had significant positive effects on family size, whereas age at first delivery, duration between two consecutive pregnancies and history of past abortions were inversely related to family size in the stepwise multiple regression analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Although women in the less urbanized areas in the Gulf Arab populations are more disadvantaged with respect to socio-economic characteristics than women in the more urbanized areas, there were no significant differences in family size in these contrasting communities. The impact of socio-demographic characteristics on family size was minor compared to factors related to fertility and the husband's desire to have more children. Fertility and family planning policies should consider these issues in order to promote more effective programmes. Language: English Keywords: KUWAIT | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | INTERVIEWS | WOMEN | RESPONDENTS | FAMILY SIZE | BIRTH SPACING | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | WOMEN'S HEALTH | HEALTH SERVICES | UTILIZATION OF HEALTH CARE | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | FERTILITY CHANGES | Middle East | Developed Countries | Research Methodology | Data Collection | Demographic Factors | Population | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Family Planning | Marriage | Nuptiality | Health | Delivery of Health Care | Economic Factors | Fertility | Population Dynamics Document Number: 328680 |
| 27. Peer Reviewed Title: Estimating the impact of birth control on fertility rate in sub-saharan Africa. Author: Ijaiya GT; Raheem UA; Olatinwo AW; Ijaiya MD; Ijaiya MA Source: Journal of Family Welfare. 2008 Jun;54(1):85-91. Abstract: An empirical study on the impact of birth control on fertility rates in sub-Saharan Africa was carried out using cross-country data and a multiple regression analysis. Of all the birth control devices considered in this study only the withdrawal method ran contrary to our apriori expectation, thus indicating that it did not have much influence in reducing fertility rate in sub-Saharan Africa. That the other devices (pills, injection, intra uterine device (IUD), condom/diaphragm and cervical cap, female sterilization and periodic abstinence/rhythm) fulfilled our apriori expectations does not mean that efforts should not be made to improve and sustain its usage, thus the governments in the sub-region must continue to show commitment in the implementation of their policies on birth control and make sure that the implementation go hand-in-hand with enough enlightenment campaigns on the benefits of birth control. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | RESEARCH REPORT | FERTILITY RATE | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | IMPACT | CONTRACEPTIVE PREVALENCE | Africa | Developing Countries | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Contraception | Family Planning | Marriage | Nuptiality | Communication Document Number: 340188 |
| 28. Title: Marriage patterns in Palestine. Author: Jarallah Y Source: Washington, D.C., Population Reference Bureau [PRB], 2008 Oct. 6 p. (MENA Working Paper Series) Abstract: Marriage patterns in Palestine are unique compared with other countries in the region. Although most countries in the Middle East and North Africa are experiencing an increase in the age at marriage, early marriage in Palestine continues to be relatively high. About one in 10 Palestinian women ages 15 to 19 is married. Yet, an increasing number of women are delaying marriage and remaining single. In a society that favors marriage and children, it is essential to understand and address the needs of single women. Language: English Keywords: WEST BANK | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | EVER MARRIED | NEVER MARRIED | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | MARRIAGE AGE | ATTITUDES | CHILD MARRIAGE | MARRIAGE POSTPONEMENT | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | HOME ECONOMICS | PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT | WOMEN'S STATUS | Middle East | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Marriage | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Microeconomic Factors | Child Rearing Document Number: 323120 |
| 29. Title: First birth in Russia: Everyone does it -- young. Author: Kesseli K Source: Finnish Yearbook of Population Research. 2008;43:41-62. Abstract: Until the early 1990s, the common characteristics of Russian fertility were early and almost universal marriage and childbearing. In this article I examine the impact of cohort on first birth. I follow Russian women (based on self-reported ethnicity) born between 1930 and 1986 by applying event history techniques to the Russian Generation and Gender Survey (GSS). The results show that first birth took place earlier in women s lives cohorts born from the 1930s to the 1960s cohort. Among younger women, the trend is opposite, but it is too early to speak of a strong postponement effect. Differences in first-birth risk between cohorts are due to differences in marriage and cohabitation patterns. (author's) Language: English Keywords: RUSSIA | RESEARCH REPORT | COHORT ANALYSIS | EVENT HISTORY ANALYSIS | WOMEN | COUPLES | MATERNAL AGE | FIRST BIRTH | AGE FACTORS | AGE SPECIFIC FERTILITY RATE | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | LIVING ARRANGEMENTS | Asia, Northern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Demographic Analysis | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Parental Age | Population Characteristics | Pregnancy History | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Fertility Rate | Birth Rate | Marriage | Nuptiality | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors Document Number: 326068 |
| 30. Peer Reviewed Title: Demographic differentials and demographic integration of Turkish and Kurdish populations in Turkey. Author: Koc I; Hancioglu A; Cavlin A Source: Population Research and Policy Review. 2008 Aug;27(4):447-457. Abstract: The objectives of the study are threefold: (1) to provide estimates of the total populations and spatial distributions of different language groups in Turkey, (2) to test whether the commonly held belief that Turkish-speaking and Kurdish-speaking populations are "actors" of different demographic regimes is true, and (3) to assess whether a process of integration, in the form of intermarriage of Turks and Kurds is under way in Turkey. Data come mainly from the 2003 Turkish Demographic and Health Survey (TDHS-2003). Based on the assumption that the mother tongue composition of women is also representative of that of the whole population, the results of the TDHS-2003 imply that of the population of Turkey, 83% are Turkish-speaking, 14% are Kurdish-speaking, 2% are Arabic-speaking and the remaining 1% belong to other language groups. Results show that despite intensive internal migration movements in the last 50 years, strong demographic differentials exist between Turkish and Kurdish-speaking populations, and that the convergence of the two groups does not appear to be a process under way. Turks and Kurds do indeed appear to be actors of different demographic regimes, at different stages of demographic and health transition processes. (author's) Language: English Keywords: TURKEY | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | POPULATION DISTRIBUTION | POPULATION CHARACTERISTICS | LANGUAGE | CULTURAL BACKGROUND | ETHNIC GROUPS | DEMOGRAPHIC IMPACT | POPULATION DYNAMICS | FERTILITY DETERMINANTS | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | Europe, Southeastern | Europe | Developing Countries | Demographic Surveys | Demographic Factors | Population | Geographic Factors | Communication | Fertility | Contraception | Family Planning | Health | Marriage | Nuptiality Document Number: 325865 |
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