Women's Choices Research Articles

ANALYSING DETERMINANTS OF HOUSEHOLD BROILER CHICKEN MEAT PURCHASES AMIDST SOCIAL-MEDIA MISINFORMATION: A TOBIT STUDY

The Indian poultry sector significantly boosts GDP. It is grown at 8-10% annually, reaching $22.97 billion in 2022, expected to hit $41.94 billion (10.18% CAGR) from 2023 to 2028. Social media misinformation adversely affected the broiler sector, lowering prices and consumption. Using the Tobit Model, this study analysed Indian households' broiler chicken purchases during misinformation. Data on demographics, socioeconomics, and monthly consumption of chicken meat was collected from 503 respondents and analysed. On average, men favoured broiler chicken, while women preferred native chicken. The potential impact of social media misinformation on women's choices and the influence on households with senior citizens, which consumed significantly less quantity compared to their counterparts, remained intriguing. Unexpectedly, households with better incomes and more education purchased less broiler meat. Marital status, place of residence, cohabitation, and presence of children did not significantly affect the outcome. Muslim families purchased more broiler chicken meat, and larger households consumed more. Consumption frequency was important, with daily and alternate-day customers making larger purchases. Purchases of broiler meat were negatively impacted by the consumption of country chicken. Amidst social media misinformation, while a slight adverse impact on household broiler consumption may have occurred, it's notable that a significant portion of households (97.20%) continued to purchase broiler chicken meat, exhibiting the potential effectiveness of media-driven interventions in mitigating the impact of misinformation and reiterated the persistent favourability for broiler chicken as a dietary protein choice within the larger consumer demographic. The Indian poultry industry is vital for food security and economic growth, making it imperative to address social media-induced panic. Transparency, trust, and accurate information transmission are essential. In order to effectively handle market challenges, stakeholders need to take into account factors like demography and dietary preferences that impact consumer behaviour.

Research on Women's Educational Inequality

Education is a tool to achieve social equality. To achieve educational equality, it is necessary to prevent inequalities caused by student capital (such as gender, family, city where one lives and studies, etc.). This paper focuses on the inequalities faced by women in education. This paper uses online interviews to invite participants to discuss their educational disparities. This paper found that females are easily bound by the stereotypes around them in the process of making choices, such as major choices, schools, and life choices. This kind of constraint pushes females in the direction of the social stereotype that women are more suitable. However, some women rebel against these constraints. Stereotypes influence women's professional choices and, indirectly, their job choices. Finally, it leads to a gap for women in STEM fields.

Food Insecurity and Women's Choice of Reversible Contraceptives: Differential Effects by Maternal Age.

We investigated the relationships between food insecurity (FI) and women's choice of reversible contraceptives, overall and according to the level of method effectiveness, among partnered women of reproductive age in Nigeria. This population-based cross-sectional analysis used nationally representative data from Round 6 of the UNICEF-supported Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) conducted in Nigeria. The sample included married or in-union women aged 15-49 years who reported a live birth in the last 2 years preceding the survey (unweighted N = 8496). Survey-weighted multivariable binomial and multinomial logistic regression analyses were performed to generate estimates of the association between FI (none, moderate, and severe) and reversible contraceptive use (overall and by method effectiveness). A Bonferroni correction was used to account for multiple testing. We stratified the models by maternal age to describe the experiences of women aged 15-24 years, 25-34 years, and 35-49 years. Overall, 6438 (74.1%) of the women in the sample experienced food insecurity (moderate, n = 2559, 30.7%; severe, n = 3879, 43.4%). In the adjusted model, we observed no statistically significant association between experiencing MFI and SFI and the use of reversible contraceptives (overall and specific) after adjustment for multiple testing. The stratified analyses showed that among women aged 25-34 years in the sample, those experiencing SFI in the past 12 months, compared to their food-secure counterparts, had significantly lower odds of reporting the use of a least effective contraceptive method (OR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.34-0.83; p = 0.0052). However, this failed to reach the significance threshold upon adjustment for multiple testing. We found no significant association between the FI levels and use of reversible contraceptives (overall and specific) among partnered women (15-49 years) in Nigeria who were 2 years postpartum following a live birth and who were at risk of pregnancy.

Exploratory Study of gendered-linked differences in word choice in a popular Panamanian talk show

Differences between men's and women's word choices have always motivated sociolinguistic studies that correlate these variations to the gender roles or stereotypes that generate social judgments about people's expressions. This exploratory study examined gendered-linked differences in word choices when discussing daily life issues. The data was collected using a descriptive statistics table that compiled all the euphemisms, diminutives, descriptive adjectives, and politeness markers used by four conductors (two men and two women) of a popular Panamanian TV show in six discussion forums. The information was later analyzed for response patterns, similarities, and differences within and across the two groups. Our findings indicate remarkable gendered-linked differences in the use of these words, evidence of word choice variation across genders. We conclude that these variations are part of daily life communication and illustrate the effect of social behaviors and ideologies on the use of language.

Factors Associated with Birth-Related Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms and the Subsequent Impact of Traumatic Birth on Mother-Infant Relationship Quality.

This study aimed to investigate factors associated with birth-related PTSD symptoms and the subsequent impact on mother-infant relationship quality, exploring what women felt they needed to be different about their birth process to further understand the problem. Participants were recruited using social media advertising. A multi-method approach, using qualitative and quantitative analyses, was employed. The study included 142 pregnant women residing in Australia aged between 19 and 42 years (M = 31.24; SD = 4.70). High extraversion significantly predicted greater birth-related PTSD symptoms. There was a significant relationship between birth-related PTSD symptoms and poorer mother-infant relationship quality. The content analysis of the responses from women who reported a desire for a different or improved birth experience generated four themes: (1) less intrusive intervention, (2) better communication, (3) access to more supportive intervention, and (4) better post-birth care. The findings highlight the importance of supporting women's choices during birth by promoting informed and respectful woman-centred care. Postnatally, the screening and assessment of women should go beyond mood screening and include an assessment of the woman's response to her birth experience.

The role of social support in the decision to migrate for childbirth: qualitative evidence from India.

Temporary Childbirth Migration (TCM) involves women returning to their natal homes during or after pregnancy, a common but understudied practice in India and South Asia. This study examines social support practices influencing TCM decisions among Indian women. Factors such as family support, especially from husband, in-laws and parents, play a crucial role in migration decisions during the perinatal period. Understanding these factors is essential for improving maternal and child health outcomes and for developing targeted policies and interventions. Cultural influences also contribute to TCM decisions, impacting the timing, duration, and motivations behind women's choices to migrate during or after delivery. Our study was conducted at the Vadu Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS) in Western Maharashtra, India. We conducted 41 in-depth interviews with triads of women, their husbands, and mothers-in-law from Vadu HDSS, focusing on perceptions, timing, reasons, decision-making, and support related to Temporary Childbirth Migration (TCM). Participants varied in age, education, occupation, marriage type, migration type, delivery method, and included women who recently delivered or had infants up to two years old. The qualitative data were analyzed using both rapid analysis and traditional analysis using coded transcripts, incorporating both predefined and emergent codes to capture a wide range of participant characteristics and experiences. We later categorized our findings in Social support domains. Social support, including emotional, financial, instrumental, and informational, is a critical factor in TCM. Emotional support from mothers is highly valued, providing a stress-free environment. Financial support from husbands, in-laws, or parents influences the decision, with financial responsibilities sometimes dictating the choice of residence. Instrumental support, such as help with household chores, is essential, with varying levels of support at different locations. Informational support from experienced family members also guides expectant mothers. Healthcare access, household status, and the role of husbands further impact TCM decisions. Women prioritize proximity to medical facilities, comfort, and freedom in their natal homes. The inclusive decision-making process often involves women, in-laws, parents, and husbands. The study's findings highlight the complex interplay of social support, cultural norms, and practical considerations in TCM decisions, underscoring the need for more research to understand and support women's choices during the perinatal period. In conclusion, social support is a key driver of TCM and women's status in their households affects their support needs. Recognizing the importance of emotional, financial, informational, and instrumental support will help healthcare providers and policymakers to better assist expectant mothers, promoting positive maternal and child health outcomes.

Gender Ideology and Women's Autonomy in Colleen Hoover's Regretting You

This study investigates the issue of women's autonomy through Colleen Hoover's novel Regretting You. With MacKinnon's dominance theory as a tool, this research paper explores the impact of patriarchal societal norms on power dynamics between men and women. The study's objective is to examine how gender ideology shapes women's choices without their awareness. By investigating the consequences of these norms, this study aims to focus on how sexual dominance inhibits female autonomy. The study employs a qualitative research method, specifically close textual analysis with thematic coding, to identify recurring motifs and character archetypes. Through this approach, the study examines how the novel portrays women as oppressed, victimized, and objectified within the dominant cultural discourse. The findings of the study indicate that internalized patriarchal norms have a significant influence on female characters' attitudes towards domestic violence. Ultimately, this study emphasizes how systemic oppression impedes women's ability to make autonomous choices and underscores the importance of addressing issues such as domestic violence and sexual domination through the experiences of female characters.

Influence of a robotic companion on women's food choices: Evidence from an imaginary task.

Previous research has demonstrated the influence of commensal dining between humans on food choices, whereas we conducted two studies to examine how the presence of a robot might influence people's choices between meat-heavy and vegetable-forward meals in imaginary scenarios. In Study 1, participants were instructed to choose three desirable dishes from a set of two meat and two vegetable dishes while they imagined eating alone, with a human, or with a robot. Although the meat dishes were rated as more palatable and pleasant, the female participants chose fewer meat-heavy meals when eating alone or with a robot than when eating with a human, whereas no such effect was observed for the male participants. We also replicated these patterns in Study 2, as the female participants chose fewer meat-heavy meals when eating with a robot and a human than when eating with two humans. Collectively, these findings provide empirical evidence regarding how the presence of a certain robot can influence female consumers' food choices in imaginary scenarios, which has direct implications for the practice of promoting sustainable food choices.

Analisis Budaya Patriarki Dalam Pemilihan Karir Mahasiswi Tingkat Akhir Pada Universitas Sahid Surakarta

This study examines the influence of patriarchal culture on the career choices of final year female students at Sahid University Surakarta. Using qualitative methods, data was collected through in-depth interviews with seven main informants and two supporting informants. The results showed that patriarchal culture significantly influences the career choices of female college students, with men dominating important positions in academic and professional environments. Female college students face limited career opportunities in education and social fields, while leadership roles are dominated by men. While reproductive health services are generally adequate, the quality of off-campus facilities needs to be improved. Women also feel less safe in public spaces and their participation in public activities and economic decision-making remains limited. This research suggests universities provide mentoring programs and leadership training for female students, offer diverse internship opportunities, and promote gender equality through educational campaigns and supportive policies. This research is expected to provide new insights into the influence of patriarchal culture on women's career choices.

The role of sexual partner in women's seeking for labiaplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

The primary reasons for labiaplasty usually revolve around aesthetic, sexual, and functional concerns. Upon delving deeper into these issues, it becomes apparent that sexual partners play a controversial role in influencing women's decisions to undergo surgery. This study aimed to investigate the impact of sexual partners on women's choices to pursue labiaplasty. A comprehensive search was conducted across electronic databases covering the period from January 2000 to February 2024. After removing duplicates, a total of 931 articles were retrieved by searching keywords in titles and abstracts. The meta-analysis revealed that 36.7% of women who sought labiaplasty cited their partners' negative comments as a factor influencing their decision. After applying the eligibility criteria and excluding irrelevant articles, a total of 12 articles involving 962 participants were included in the analysis. With the exception of 2 articles, the majority of the studies suggested a discernible influence of male partners on women's decisions to seek labiaplasty. Frequently, sexual partners are not the primary decision makers, nor do they exert significant pressure when it comes to seeking labiaplasty. In certain instances, women seeking labiaplasty acknowledged that their sexual partners did influence their decisions, either by making disparaging comments about their genitalia or by directly pressuring or requesting them to undergo labiaplasty. Additionally, women might opt for labiaplasty out of fear of their partner's negative remarks or to enhance sexual pleasure for their partners. For a more accurate result, a meta-analysis was conducted noting a considerable heterogeneity. The findings of this study can be applied in prelabiaplasty counseling sessions to acknowledge and explore the role of the sexual partner in women's decision making. This study stands as the inaugural systematic review examining the impact of sexual partners on women seeking labiaplasty, encompassing all original studies exploring the role of the sexual partner. However, a notable limitation lies in the varied interpretations of the sexual partner's role, that the heterogeneous nature of these interpretations poses a challenge to providing a more precise answer through meta-analysis. Based on the findings of this systematic review, it is evident that sexual partners exert multifaceted influences on women's decisions to seek labiaplasty. While not serving as the primary decision makers, women opt for labiaplasty with the aim of enhancing attractiveness in sexual relationships and mitigating potential negative comments from their partners.

Analysis of Women's Choices in Hopeless by Colleen Hoover

Analysis of Women's Choices in Hopeless by Colleen Hoover

Lactation Initiation During COVID-19 at a Single Military Hospital.

Human milk is associated with positive short- and long-term health outcomes. Women's choice to breastfeed is influenced by personal, social, health, and economic factors. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted health care delivery, non-emergent health care services, and family lifestyles, primarily in the early months of 2020. The aim of this study was to determine if breastfeeding initiation rates differed during a global pandemic among women in the military health care system. This was a cross-sectional chart review study. We compiled all birthing event health records from March to August in 2019 and 2020 from a single military medical center. Of the 2,737 maternal-infant dyads available, 1,463 met complete inclusion criteria and were analyzed to determine associations between delivery year, maternal and infant characteristics, and initial feeding methods. Institutional research approvals were obtained from the university and medical center institutional review boards. There was no significant association between breastfeeding initiation rates and delivery year (X2(1) = 2.898, P = .089). Some maternal and infant characteristics significantly associated with the feeding method in the logistic regression model and differed by delivery year. Black women were 1.9 times less likely to initiate breastfeeding compared to White women; this disparity became more pronounced in 2020. Multiparous mothers, those who gave birth via cesarean section, and those at earlier gestational ages (32-37 weeks) were less likely to initiate breastfeeding. Models differed by delivery year, with only Black race and cesarean birth significantly impacting the overall model in 2020. Maternal age, military status, military rank, marital status, birth complications, and infant gender were not associated with the feeding method. Overall breastfeeding initiation rates did not differ during the COVID-19 pandemic when rates in 2020 were compared to those in the year prior. Race, birth method, parity, and gestational age were associated with breastfeeding initiation rates in women cared for at military centers.

An investigation of factors associated with antenatal care attendance in Gauteng in 2015.

Many studies have shown that South African women tend to initiate antenatal care late in their pregnancies. This presents challenges in the provision of quality healthcare to both mother and child. There are several studies on the social and cultural reasons for late booking. However, understanding the factors in a woman's choice to initiate antenatal care is important in informing healthcare strategies and policies. This study was an analytical cross-sectional study of household and general health factors associated with attendance of antenatal care by pregnant women in Tshwane in 2015. It was a secondary data analysis from complete data sampling households registered on AitaHealthTM. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to assess which factors are associated with antenatal care attendance. The age of the head of the household was a significant factor in the attendance of antenatal care. The odds of attending antenatal care were 3.3, 2.1 and 1.8 times higher in households where the head of the household was 30 - 39 years of age, 20 - 29 or 40-49 years of age, respectively, than when between 10-19 years of age. Factors that increased the odds of attending antenatal care were living in households that had electricity and piped water, and running a business from home. Residing in a permanent dwelling and being food secure increased the odds of antenatal care attendance. The identified health and household factors should inform policies and programmes geared towards improving services around antenatal care provision.

Novel grouping of planned coping strategies for managing the intensity of labour: A survey study of Australian nulliparous women

BackgroundIt is common for women to explore and plan strategies to cope during labour. These strategies are usually focused on pain control and described as either pharmacological or non-pharmacological. As labour is an individual experience, each woman should be enabled to choose strategies that best suit them, and that reflect what they feel influences their sense of capacity to cope. AimBy exploring women's intentions and choices of strategies, this study aimed to understand how coping strategies can better reflect women's individual needs and expectations. MethodsFifty-six primiparous women were recruited from one tertiary hospital in Melbourne, Australia between February and May 2021. Data were collected via a survey in late pregnancy using open-ended questions. Content and thematic analyses were used to analyse responses. ResultsThemes related to how women frame the intensity of labour, how they strive for a relationally safe environment and a need to be prepared and knowledgeable. Strategies chosen by women could be grouped into two categories: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic strategies could be self-generated by women (such as breathing techniques and movement), while extrinsic strategies required either equipment (such as a bath) or others to administer (such as epidural analgesia). ConclusionsWomen value having a range of intrinsic and extrinsic strategies that enable autonomy or require external support. This moves beyond the ‘pharmacological and non-pharmacological’ categorisation of strategies, and we propose that reframing strategies as intrinsic and extrinsic could have a number of benefits on women's sense of autonomy and utilisation of strategies. The findings provide a foundation for more targeted research into how women can be supported to individualise and implement these coping strategies in labour.

Women’s Empowerment Activities of Non-Governmental Organizations in Turkiye: Refugee and Local Women’s Triple Role

Objective: Development is an essential concept of social and economic progress. In Turkiye, non-governmental organisations contribute to development and empowerment through their activities. The aim of this research is to respond to “What are the alterations caused by NGOs empowerment activities in the field of development of refugee and local women’s triple role in society after the 2011 Syrian crisis?” Method: This research article employed qualitative methodology with semi-structured face-to-face and online interviews. The interviewer was selected from 10 NGOs officers between the ages of 24-35 who graduated from social sciences and humanities and had at least 2 years’ experience working in the social cohesion, livelihoods, and protection units of NGOs. Results: The findings reveal that NGOs empowerment activities that considered "class and gender," "community participation," and "social cohesion, as concepts have effects on refugee and local women’s triple role in society after the 2011 Syrian Crisis. Conclusion: Development policies and NGOs activities have an important role in the civil society. It enhances women status in the society. Additionally, NGOs’ activities that focused on women's empowerment and women's strategic life choices (resources, agency, and success), have positive impacts women’s triple roles.

Introducing waterbirth in a university hospital setting in Sweden: A qualitative study of midwives' experiences.

Waterbirth is a popular and increasing care option in several countries but is still debated. In Sweden, there are challenges in the process of reintroducing waterbirth after decades of interruption invoked by a dissuasion. The aim of this study was to explore factors affecting midwives' provision of waterbirth at a university birthing clinic in Sweden. A qualitative research design was used with three focus group interviews with 18 midwives at three birthing units. The data were analyzed using the principles of inductive content analysis. The midwives in the study expressed positive attitudes and potentiality about waterbirth, contributing to their desire to support physiological birth. However, obstacles were also disclosed, maiming waterbirth evolvement. Hence, two categories emerged, promoting factors and obstructing factors. The subcategories were: Provides a good experience whilst promoting physiological birth; Increased knowledge and information about waterbirth; Support from management; Updated guidelines; Ergonomic challenges; Lacking practical conditions; Lack of knowledge; Paradigm conflicts; and Limiting guidelines. The study concluded that midwives recognized both promoting and obstructing factors affecting the provision of waterbirth. The predominant factor highlighted was the care-culture, with a clear distinction between a risk-focused, medicalized approach that inhibits waterbirth and a salutogenic perspective advocating for it. This dichotomy underscores the importance of providing opportunities that support women's choices to facilitate an empowering birth experience.

Instrumental Femininity: The Tokyo Women's Higher Normal School and the Shaping of Social and Gender Hierarchies in Modern Japan

Abstract: How can we assess the impact of the ideology of female domesticity on women's higher education and professional opportunities? This article examines this question through the lens of Tokyo Women's Higher Normal School, Japan's first tertiary educational institution for women. Graduates of this school established for the propagation of gender ideology joined a respectable profession, that of teaching. They used this ideology to justify the upgrade of their alma mater to the rank of university. However, this ideology supported women who chose to specialize in teaching but not in other specialties such as engineering, posing an additional challenge for female aspirants in those fields who sought to enter and excel in traditionally male institutions. By looking at these challenges implied in the institutional evolution of this school, I examine the ways in which this gender ideology allowed the rise of female professionals while limiting women's life choices and professional opportunities.

Self-efficacy, intention, and attitude toward human papillomavirus vaccination among urban females in indonesia: a cross-sectional study

Introduction: Women's choice to undergo vaccination against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is shaped by a multitude of factors. This study seeks to investigate the differences of intentions and attitudes toward the HPV vaccine and its effect size among women categorized into three groups based on their level of self-efficacy. Methods: As many as 441 respondents were selected using the consecutive sampling method. The samples were divided into three groups based on their level of self-efficacy (low, medium, and high). The research employed a cross-sectional design from 13 May to 15 June 2023 in the working area of Public Health Centers located in Jakarta by implementing individual home visits. The research instruments comprised the Self-Efficacy Scale for HPV vaccination, the Intentions to Receive the HPV Vaccine Questionnaire, and the Attitude of HPV, Cervical Cancer, and Vaccine HPV Questionnaire; all were declared valid and reliable. The Kruskal-Wallis Test, the Tukey HSD Post Hoc Test, and the Epsilon Squared Test were performed to examine intention and attitude based on the type of self-efficacy and the effect size found. Results: Significant differences were observed in intention (p<0.001) and attitude (p<0.001) among the three self-efficacy groups, demonstrating relatively robust effect sizes (attitude: ε2=0.109, p<0.001; intention: ε2=0.159, p<0.001). Conclusions:The research demonstrated discernible discrepancies in intention and attitude across the three sample groups distinguished by their self-efficacy levels. It is advisable to design interventions focusing on health promotion that highlight the diverse needs and characteristics of different groups of women.

Https://kiulj.kiu.ac.ug/assets/articles/1722434095_legal-frameworks-for-single-use-plastic-management-environmental-challenges-and-solutions.pdf

The use of polyethylene bags has been found to have more cons than pros. While it is a suitable choice of packaging for many, it contributes a lot to environmental pollution. Plastic bags contain harmful chemicals that when dumped, poisons the soil, water and everything in them. When incinerated, it is hazardous to the environment. Notwithstanding the hazard of plastic bags, it still remains the favorite choice of many, especially women in markets. This paper reviews the reasons for plastic bags being the women's favorite choice; which is largely connected to the economic living standard and long-term lifestyle of a large section of Nigerian women. The paper adopts the doctrinal methodology to consider the impact of plastic bags on the environment as well as human and animal life. Furthermore, the paper considers the role played by the environmental agencies and the existing laws and policies. It concludes by identifying a lack of awareness and proper education as a leading cause of the continued preference of plastic bags despite its multiple hazards. Finally, the paper recommends that a solution to the menace of plastic bags is to impose a ban on single-use plastic bags among others.

The EMERGE framework to measure empowerment for health and development

RationaleWomen's empowerment is a UN Sustainable Development Goal and a focus of global health and development but survey measures and data on gender empowerment remain weak. Existing indicators are often disconnected from theory; stronger operationalization is needed. ObjectiveWe present the EMERGE Framework to Measure Empowerment, a framework to strengthen empowerment measures for global health and development. MethodWe initiated development of this framework in 2016 as part of EMERGE – an initiative designed to build the science of survey research and availability of high-quality survey measures and data on gender empowerment. The framework is guided by existing theories of empowerment, evidence, and expert input. We apply this framework to understand women's empowerment in family planning (FP) via review of state of the field measures. ResultsOur framework offers concrete measurable constructs to assess critical consciousness and choice, agency and backlash, and goal achievement as the empowerment process, recognizing its operation at multiple levels-from the individual to the collective. Internal attributes, social norms, and external contexts and resources create facilitators or barriers to the empowerment process. Review of best evidence FP measures assessing empowerment constructs, social norms, and key influencers (e.g., partners and providers) show a strong landscape of measures, including those with women, partners, and providers, but they are limited in assessing translation of choice to agency to achievement of women's self-determined fertility or contraceptive goals, instead relying on assumption of contraceptive use as the goal. We see no measures on collective empowerment toward women's reproductive choice and rights. ConclusionThe EMERGE Framework can guide development and analysis of survey measures on empowerment and is needed as the current state of the field shows limited coverage of empowerment constructs even in areas which have received more study, such as family planning.