Cultural determinants of fertility behaviour in Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the influence of cultural variables, namely age of entering into marriage, belief systems and sex preference on fertility behaviour among women in Nigeria. Preference theory was adopted as a framework for explaining fertility behaviour. The study used mixed method design. A sample of 614 participants were selected for the study. Qualitative and quantitative research instruments were used for data collection. Retrieved data were analysed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS version 20.0). Results revealed that there is a significant relationship between belief systems, age of entry into marriage, sex preference and fertility behaviour among women. Based on these, it was recommended among others that younger women should always consult registered gynaecologists to help them regulate and control child-birthing. Laws should be enacted that encourage marriages between 25-35 years. It was also recommended that religious and traditional clerics should discuss and enlighten their members on fertility behaviour.