Mass media Influence and birth control practice among men in Delta state of Nigeria

Abstract

The rate of population growth in Nigeria has become alarming as an average Nigeria woman gives birth to at least five children in her life time. This practice, if not checked, may affirm popular assertion that predicts a double of the country’s population in the next 25 years. This concern point to the fact that birth contro has become key to solving the challenge of rapid population growth. The mass media have been considered the most appropiate strategy to promote knowledge and adoption of birth control. Concern however, lies in the non-participation of men in birth control adopton as the pactice is being perceived to be “a woman thing”. This interest is the reason for this study which seek to examine mass media influence and birth control practice among men in Delta state of Nigeria. The study which made use of the theory of mordernization, adopt the comparative survey research method, which was carried out between men in Eku and Effurun town. With a sample size of 100 respondents, the study disclosed that the radio and television is the most popular channel where men in the aformention towns get to hear about mass media campaign on birth control. Also, the study shows that though men in Eku and Effurun town have knowledge about mass media campaign on birth control, their perception and societial practice does affect their high rate of compliance, mostly among those residing in rural areas. Uninterrupted campaign about the practice, with messages that eliminate the hindrance of misconception about birth control, will result to more acceptance and compliance among residents in Delta State.