Description
Published in the Catholic Social Science Review of 2002, volume 7 pgs. 185-211 and Presented at the Pontifical Academy for Life in Vatican City, Europe 2005. And published in the Proceedings of the Academy 2006 For many years, research has pointed to substantial differences between couples who practice Natural Family Planning (NFP) and couples who use artificial birth control. Using data collected from a sample of women in the United States of America who practice natural family planning and comparing them to well-known national surveys, this study examines the effects of Natural Family Planning and artificial birth control on several dimensions of marital and family life. The study finds that NFP women have lower rates of abortion and divorce (0.2%), than women in the national samples. The NFP women are more likely to be married and are more likely to recommend premarital chastity to young women. The study also finds a high level of success in family life among NFP women, as well as strong religious faith. Results support the hypothesis that natural family planning is associated with positive spousal relationships and family stability. Interpretations of new data are discussed.