The Effect of Engaged Couples' Religious Orientations on Family Planning Attitude: The Mediating Role of Social Gender Perception

Background Family planning is a multifaceted phenomenon with both health and social dimensions. The emergence of a negative family planning attitude, influenced by many factors, can significantly affect women's health and become a public health problem. This study aimed to determine the mediating role of gender perception in the effect of religious orientation on family planning attitude among individuals who are about to get married. Methods In this descriptive and cross-sectional study, a total of 151 couples (302 engaged individuals) were included. The study data were collected using the Descriptive Information Form, the Family Planning Attitude Scale, the Social Gender Perception Scale, and the Religious Orientation Scale. Results Accordingly, the mean score for family planning attitude was determined as 125.35 ± 18.09, the mean score for religious orientation as 55.14 ± 8.19, and the mean score for social gender perception as 77.03 ± 7.96. Social gender perception mediates the relationship between religious orientation and family planning attitude. Conclusion The study findings indicate that religious orientation and social gender perception are important factors affecting family planning attitudes among individuals who are about to marry.