Learning Objective #1: Understand culturally based behaviors and attitudes of Korean immigrant women related to oral contraceptive use

Learning Objective #2: Understand how changes in cultural context due to acculturation influence the use of oral contraceptives among Korean women

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Backgrounds and Significance: Despite the convenience and high effectiveness of oral contraceptives, this method is considered as the least preferable method among women in Korea. Studies have shown that cultural values embedded in male-dominated Korean societies have function as one of the major factors that limit the uptake of oral contraceptives among Korean women. This limited use of oral contraceptives leads to high rates of unwanted pregnancies and unnecessary abortions, threatening women's health Although several studies have reported how acculturation affects immigrant women's health, few studies have been conducted to examine how acculturation influences immigrant women's family planning compliance relevant to contraception. Purpose of the Study: The study is designed to explore the relationships between levels of acculturation and oral contraceptive use behaviors and attitudes among Korean immigrant women. Theoretical Framework: The Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA), conceptualized by Fishbein and Ajzen (1975) has been used in the past as a theoretical guide for health seeking behavior prediction in several studies. Studies have shown that attitude and subjective norms were strong determinants of women's intentions to use contraceptive methods. Design and Methods: A convenience sample of Korean immigrant women (N = 100) who reside in the State of New York will be recruited based on Korean surname-based mailing lists. Four instruments (Demographic Inventory, Attitude Toward Using Birth Control Pills Scale, Behavior Toward Using Birth Control Pills, and Suinn-Lew Self-Identity Acculturation Scale) will be administered in a Korean language version. Using a multiple regression analysis, the differences between low- and high-acculturated women with respect to oral contraceptive use behavior and attitudes will be assessed. Implication: A better understanding of Korean immigrant women's attitudinal and behavioral status of oral contraceptives will lead health care providers to develop culturally sensitive intervention programs that will promote positive behaviors toward the use of oral contraceptives.