Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Family planning is a crucial aspect of controlling population growth and achieving sustainable development. This research study aims to investigate the effectiveness of family planning programs in influencing population dynamics. The study utilizes a mixed-methods approach to gather data from both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to provide a comprehensive analysis. The quantitative aspect of the research involves collecting data on the uptake of family planning services, contraceptive prevalence rates, and fertility rates in different regions. By analyzing this data, the study aims to assess the impact of family planning on reducing unwanted pregnancies and controlling population growth. Additionally, the research explores the correlation between access to family planning services and the demographic trends observed in various populations. In parallel, the qualitative component of the study involves conducting interviews with individuals and families who have utilized family planning services. Through these interviews, the research seeks to understand the factors influencing individuals' decisions regarding family planning, as well as the challenges they face in accessing and utilizing these services. By capturing personal experiences and perspectives, the study aims to provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of family planning programs on the ground. Furthermore, the research evaluates the role of education and awareness campaigns in promoting family planning and changing societal attitudes towards population control. By analyzing the impact of information dissemination on contraceptive use and family planning practices, the study aims to highlight the importance of comprehensive reproductive health education in achieving sustainable population growth. Overall, this research contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence on the effectiveness of family planning programs in influencing population dynamics. By combining quantitative data analysis with qualitative insights, the study offers a holistic understanding of the factors shaping individuals' decisions regarding family planning. The findings of this research have implications for policymakers and organizations involved in population control efforts, emphasizing the importance of targeted interventions and education campaigns in promoting family planning and achieving sustainable development goals.

Thesis Overview

 Introduction

Among the ten largest countries in the world, one is in Africa (Nigeria), five are in Asia (Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, and Pakistan), two are in Latin America (Brazil and Mexico), one is in Northern America (United States of America), and one is in Europe (Russian Federation). Amongst these, Nigeria’s population, currently the seventh largest in the world with over 180 million people (Wordlometers, 2016) is growing the most rapidly. Consequently, the population of Nigeria is projected to surpass that of the United States by about 2050, at which point it would become the third largest country in the world (UN, 2015 ). Family planning according to United Nations Population Funds Activities (UNPFA 2001) is a recognized basic human right and enables individuals and couples to determine the number and spacing of their children.      The World Health Organization (WHO, 2013) stated that family planning allows individuals and couples to anticipate and attain their desired number of children and the spacing and timing of their births.

Chapter Two: Literature Review

This chapter reviews literature on population growth, family planning and the strategies of resolving population growth in Nigeria. Family planning according to United Nations Population Funds Activities (UNPFA 2001) is a recognized basic human right and enables individuals and couples to determine the number and spacing of their children. There is virtually not universally accepted theory on which a family planning research could be hinged. Nevertheless, people have approached the Problem using Health belief model by Rosen Stock et al and Theory of Reasoned Action by Fishbein and Ajzen.

Chapter Three: Research Methodology

This chapter deals with the methodology and the research instrument to be used in getting data for the study. This study uses descriptive survey type. The population comprised the entire families in Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State. Sample sizes of 240 families were used for this study. 30 families were randomly drawn from each community using the simple random sampling techniques. Questionnaire was used as instrument for data collection. The t-test statistics was employed to test the hypotheses formulated for the study.

Chapter Four: Data Analysis

In this chapter, the researcher will analyse the data collected for the research work and interpret it according to the research hypotheses formulated in chapter one.

Chapter Five: Summary, Conclusion and Recommendations

Summary and conclusions are to be drawn from the research literature, research findings and data analysis. Recommendations on linking family planning and national development was made in the final chapter.