Communication and Contraceptive Behavior among Adolescents in Kenya

Peter M. Koome, University of Nairobi

This study analyzes the direction and strength of association between exposure to family planning (FP) messages through mass media and interpersonal sources on the one hand, and knowledge of modern FP methods, approval of contraceptive use, intention to use contraceptives in future, and ever-use of a contraceptive method among adolescents on the other hand. Based on the 1998 Kenya DHS data, this study analyzed 1852 females aged 15-19 years. Results of logistic regression analyses show that mass media exposure is most significantly associated with the first two stages of behavior change (knowledge and approval); its effects are much weaker at intention stage and absent at the last stage (ever use of contraception). In contrast, interpersonal communication is strongly associated with all the stages of contraceptive behavior. To influence adolescent contraceptive behavior, both sources should be used concurrently.