An Analysis of Youths' Responses to Media Messages Promoting Family Planning Services in Abraka Community of Delta State

Abstract

This study evaluates the degree of awareness, misconceptions, and attitudes to media messages on family planning methods in Abraka community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State. It employed the survey method of research, using a sample of one hundred and twenty (120) respondents who were purposively chosen from different parts of Abraka community in Delta State. The research also involved an examination of secondary data to generate data and assumptions for the study. Data generated were analysed using simple percentage and presented with the aid of tables. Findings revealed that the youths in Abraka are aware of family planning, and believe that family planning should be encouraged. They also agee that the mass media do give the messages concerning family planning. Findings also reveal that the majority of the respondents are of the view that they get their family planning messages from radio, television and newspapers mainly. However, the majority of the respondents believe that Radio is the most effective source for media messages on family planning. The study therefore recommends that the mass media should focus also on enlightening the youths on the dangers of unwanted pregnancies as illiteracy is found to be a major factor which still sustains it in the community under study and that health organisations and reproductive health partners in Delta State should partner with the mass media on advocacy efforts with a view to promoting family planning more at the grassroots level.