Date of Conferral

4-15-2024

Date of Award

April 2024

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Health

Advisor

Kennedy Chinaro

Abstract

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is one of the hindrances to girls' development. FGM is often a rite of passage between childhood and adulthood. This cross-sectional study examined the relationship between the knowledge, years of licensure, and attitudes of midwives regarding FGM and the prevalence of FGM among their patients in Bawku, Ghana. Bronfenbrenner's social ecological model served as the theoretical framework to describe the link between midwives' knowledge, attitude, years of licensure, and FGM prevalence. The knowledge and attitude of midwives were classified as exosystem factors. Hence, their direct interaction with patients is likely to affect the patient's practice of FGM. The data were collected via online survey questionnaires from 55 registered midwives working in the Bawku Municipal District. Results of multiple linear regression indicated that both the knowledge and attitudes of midwives had a statistically significant effect on the number of FGM cases attended to by midwives. Results showed that midwives with strong attitudes in favor of FGM were more likely to report more cases of FGM than those who did not support FGM. The findings emphasize the transformative potential of focusing on midwives' knowledge and attitudes in the fight against FGM. The implications for positive social change included recommendations for extensive educational programs on the adverse consequences of FGM through workshops and seminars. Equipping midwives with knowledge, promoting attitudes against FGM, and fostering collaboration with various stakeholders may create a future free from FGM.

Download

Included in

Public Health Commons

Share

 
COinS