Contraceptive Choices and Attachment Voices: A Study at the University of Limpopo

Abstract

Introduction This study examined the relationship between attachment styles and contraceptive intent among female University of Limpopo students in Polokwane, South Africa. The primary hypotheses proposed positive associations between secure attachment and high contraceptive intent, as well as varying relationships for avoidant and anxious attachment styles. Methods A cross-sectional correlational survey design was utilized to examine the association between attachment styles and contraceptive intent among female university students. A total of 207 students were approached, of whom 180 met eligibility criteria, provided consent, and completed the questionnaire (response rate = 87%). Multinomial logistic regression assessed relationships between attachment styles (secure, avoidant, anxious) and three levels of contraceptive intent (low, moderate, high). Results Among 180 participants (mean age = 21.4 ± 2.3 years), 41.1% reported secure, 31.7 % anxious, and 27.2% avoidant attachment. Contraceptive intent was high in 35.6%, moderate in 39.4%, and low in 25%. Multinomial logistic regression showed that anxious attachment positively predicted high contraceptive intent (B = 0.913, p = 0.042), while avoidant attachment predicted low intent (B = –0.756, p = 0.038). Pseudo R 2 values (Cox & Snell = R 2 0.023; Nagelkerke = R 2 0.116) indicated weak explanatory power. These findings suggest that while attachment styles shape emotional dynamics surrounding contraceptive decision-making, contextual and relational factors exert stronger influence, highlighting the need for integrated psychosocial interventions in student sexual-health programmes. Discussion Although the overall model was not statistically significant, distinct patterns emerged: anxious attachment was linked to high contraceptive intent, while avoidant attachment predicted lower intent. These findings suggest that attachment insecurity may shape reproductive decision-making. However, broader psychological and contextual factors likely play a more influential role than attachment style alone. Conclusion Attachment styles may not be strong predictors of contraceptive behaviour among this population. The study highlights the complexity of reproductive decision-making and the need for further research that includes additional psychological and contextual variables. Future studies should explore diverse populations to better understand the nuanced factors influencing contraceptive intent.