Discriminant analysis as a method for differentiating potential acceptors of family planning: Western Samoa
Gans, L.P.; Wood, C.S.
Human Organization 44(3): 228-233
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0018-7259 DOI: 10.17730/humo.44.3.7n4535h031186807Document Number: 318112
This paper reports on an examination of selected variables which shape the lives of reproductive women living in Western Samoa, based on a survey conducted in 1979 in Apia, Western Samoa. It identifies measurable characteristics differentiating the women into distinct groups: those who would and who would not be receptive to modern methods of birth control. After a brief introduction giving general background information on Western Samoa, the paper describes the methodology used in the survey, particularly the attempt to examine the effects of cultural beliefs on discriminant analysis which is used to to distinguish between traditional and modern groups. The conclusion stresses the heterogenous nature of Western Samoan life in terms of beliefs, attitudes and practices, and the reasons for specific decision making by individual women in terms of their reproductive preferences.