Theoretical Perspectives on Causes and Effects of Low Uptake of Family Planning Services among Couples in Southeast Nigeria and the Way Forward

Abstract

This review paper is premised on three cardinal goals. First, it reviewed the prevailing knowledge, attitude and practices relevant to family planning in Southeast Nigeria, Secondly, it examined factors hindering effective use of family planning services in the area, and the effects of such low use of family planning services. Thirdly, the paper interrogated and found three theoretical models (symbolic interactionism, functionalism, conflict) as relevant to varying degrees in explaining the issue of low use of family planning in Southeast Nigeria. Finally, possible solutions were proferred to the problem of low use of family planning services in South East Nigeria. One of such recommendations was that there should be a full implementation of Nigeria’s population policy of four children per woman per family. This should be accompanied by some penalty for defaulters. The authors’ position is born out of the fact that the population policy of one child per family in China has significantly contributed to population control in that country.