Zena Aljilehawi
Research Mentor(s): Angubeen Khan
Mentor Department: Institute for Social Research
Authors: Zena Aljilehawi, Angubeen Khan, Mona Makki, Madiha Tariq, Yasamin Kusunoki
Session: Session 4 (1:00pm – 1:50pm)
Presentation Type: Poster 40
Abstract
Introduction: Reproductive autonomy is defined as the power to control and decide about contraceptive use, pregnancy, and childbearing and is a determinant of the capacity of birthing people to be able to use contraception. Impediments to reproductive autonomy may occur in the forms of contraceptive sabotage, sexual coercion, and pregnancy coercion, which are also known as forms of reproductive coercion. Current literature on reproductive autonomy and contraceptive use among Arab American women is limited due to inequities in data. This study explores community perceptions of how Arab American women make decisions around reproduction and childbearing, their levels of reproductive autonomy, and the role of culture and religion in their reproductive health. Objectives/Hypothesis: This study uses a community-engaged approach to explore the role of cultural pressure and religious beliefs on contraception choices among Arab-Muslim women living in the United States, along with culturally and religiously-sensitive strategies to promote reproductive autonomy and health. Methods: The study team formed a community-university partnership with the Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (ACCESS) in Dearborn, Michigan. Two focus groups (N=21) with providers and community stakeholders, and semi-structured interviews (N=15) were conducted with Arab American women in the community. Qualitative analysis of the focus group and interviews were conducted using an inductive, open-coding process using NVivo software. Results: Arab Muslim women in this sample perceived that reproductive coercion is often accepted in their community. Additionally, there were perceived differences in how Arab Muslim women view issues related to reproductive autonomy based on their generational status, countries of origin and subcultures, and relationship dynamics. Religion was also indicated as an important consideration for understanding reproductive autonomy within this community. Conclusion: We will continue thematic analysis of the focus group and interviews to understand ways that culture and religion shape reproductive autonomy among Arab Americans.
