Date of Conferral

12-20-2024

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Health

Advisor

Dr Patrick Tschida

Abstract

Social support signifies a system that provides for family, relatives, and friends or is derived from external sources such as social services or health promotion networks and can reduce depression and increase well-being. Absent from the literature was the understanding of the significance of social support for young women with limited education aged 18-25 on the journey from conception to the postpartum period in Nigeria. In this qualitative phenomenological study, the individual perception, attitude, and social support received by young women with limited education during pregnancy in Wudil LGA of Kano state in northern Nigeria were examined. The study addressed two main research questions: (a) “What are the perceptions and attitudes of young women with limited education regarding social support during pregnancy?” and (b) “What is the availability of social support for young women with limited education during pregnancy?” The purpose was to have findings based on the social-ecological model that could address gaps in community, environmental attributes, and the significance of social support for young mothers with limited education during pregnancy. Results revealed that young pregnant women with limited education value social support but face limitations in accessing it. The women perceived social support as multifaceted, encompassing emotional, physical, and financial needs. Social support for women includes access to nutritious food, and financial assistance. The findings have implications for social change aimed at reducing the risk of anxiety, adverse mental health, improving birth outcomes, enhancing interactions and relationships. Also, reforming culture and social institutions over time, comprehensive social support can profoundly positively impact society.

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