A family planning project in Rhodesia.

Abstract

Discussions with 552 man and 254 women in Rhodesia explored their reasons for nonacceptance of family planning. Reasons given include: a desire for many children for personal, economic and tribal security reasons; fear of high mortality; need for children as a labor resource; will of God; and personal pride in many sons. A change in attitudes toward acceptance of family planning may be attained by effective communication (not merely transmission of information), by involvement of community innovators; and by personalized persuasion thru material and child welfare services. The use of trained midwives concentrating on ante and postnatal care would be an asset to the program.