Knowledge, Religious Concern, Healthcare Support and the Practical Involvement of Men in Family Planning
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65339/ijsair.V2.I3.854Keywords:
Andersen Healthcare Utilization Model, Family Planning, Healthcare Support, Health Belief Model, Male Inclusivity, Men’s Practical Involvement, Religious Concern, Reproductive HealthAbstract
This study examined men’s knowledge, religious concerns, healthcare support, and practical involvement in family planning in Barangay Tibanga, Iligan City. It was anchored in the Health Belief Model and Andersen Healthcare Utilization Model, which explain how individual perceptions, beliefs, available resources, and healthcare conditions influence participation in health-related activities. The study employed descriptive-correlational and predictive-causal research designs. Using purposive sampling with a consecutive sampling approach, data were collected from 195 married men or men in long-term relationships aged 18 to 54 years. A validated and reliability-tested survey-modified questionnaire based on the Demographic and Health Surveys Model Men’s Questionnaire was used. Data were analyzed using the mean, standard deviation, Spearman’s rho, and multiple linear regression. The findings showed high levels of knowledge regarding family planning, religious concern, and practical involvement, while healthcare support was moderately high. Men were most involved through communication, shared responsibility, and joint decision-making with their partners, but participation in public advocacy and community activities remained comparatively lower. Knowledge, religious concern, and healthcare support were significantly related to men’s practical involvement. The regression model explained 46.8% of the variance in practical involvement, with men’s inclusivity in the health service environment and awareness of contraception and misconceptions emerging as significant predictors. Religious concerns and access to family planning services were associated with involvement but did not independently predict it when the other variables were considered. The study recommends male-friendly facilities, gender-sensitive counseling, accurate family planning education, inclusive community programs, and stronger collaboration among healthcare providers, local government units, religious institutions, and couples. The study supports SDG 1 on poverty reduction, SDG 3 on good health and well-being, SDG 5 on gender equality, and SDG 17 on partnerships. Its sustainability impact lies in strengthening inclusive reproductive healthcare, shared family responsibility, culturally sensitive services, and evidence-based local health policies.
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