Hispanic Acculturation: Associations with Family Planning Behaviors and Attitudes

Abstract

INTRODUCTION. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of Hispanic acculturation in the United States (US) with family planning behaviors and attitudes.

METHODS. Surveys of 225 Hispanic women were collected that used acculturation measures of number of years lived in US and the Short Acculturation Scale for Hispanics (SASH) along with questions about family planning behaviors including birth control use, sterilization, and abortion.

RESULTS. SASH-Language statistically differed (p=0.03) where those with ‘yes birth control’ had significantly lower English acculturation (M=6.10, SD=1.77) than those with ‘no birth control’ (M=7.00, SD=3.16). Greater US acculturation on SASH-Ethnic Social Relations was positively associated with the attitude that finances are important when considering to have children (r=0.18, p<0.05). Number of years lived in the US was positively associated with the attitude that it is a woman’s personal choice to have an elective termination of pregnancy (r=0.19, p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS. Healthcare providers should consider patient acculturation level when discussing family planning topics. It is possible that a more detailed explanation concerning the reasons for family planning is necessary when discussing family planning topics with Hispanic patients who exhibit higher levels of English language acculturation.