Effectiveness of a multimedia campaign in shifting community knowledge, attitudes, social norms, and practices of FGM and CM in Ethiopia

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Despite legal prohibition, national prevalence stands at 65% for FGM and 40% for CM. In response, Population Media Center (PMC) collaborated with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to implement a multimedia social and behavior change (SBC) intervention to raise awareness, shift attitudes and norms, and reduce the practice of FGM and CM in 4 targeted woredas of southern Ethiopia. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the intervention in changing knowledge, attitudes, social norms, and practices related to FGM and CM. Methods: A mixed-methods evaluation was conducted in May 2025 using a comparative cross-sectional survey and qualitative interviews. Respondents were categorized by exposure to the PMC multimedia intervention. Differences in knowledge, attitudes, behavioral intentions, social norms, and practices related to FGM and CM were analyzed. Chi-square tests determined statistical significance ( p < 0.05), and quantitative insights were triangulated with qualitative insights. Results: Of 403 participants (205 exposed; 198 non-exposed; 73.7% female), the exposed group demonstrated significantly higher awareness (93.2% vs. 84.6%, p < 0.001), stronger anti-FGM attitudes (90.2% vs. 81.4%, p = 0.014), and stronger anti-CM attitudes (83.4% vs. 78.1%, p < 0.001) compared to the non-exposed. Total prevalence was 32.7% for FGM and 4.9% for CM. Qualitative data revealed that FGM persists covertly; families bypass legal restrictions by temporarily relocating girls to other villages for secret procedures. Despite high levels of awareness, deeply rooted sociocultural norms, marriageability myths, economic factors, social acceptability, and religious beliefs (“Sunna”) continue to perpetuate both practices. Conclusion: Exposure to PMC multimedia SBC engagement was associated with significant improvements in awareness and attitudes. However, the continued practice of FGM through covert means underscores the power of interlinked sociocultural and religious norms. Accelerating the abandonment of FGM and CM requires scaling community dialogues, empowering girls and young people, fostering intergenerational dialogue, coordinating stakeholder efforts, and strengthening legal enforcement to move beyond individual attitude shifts toward collective social norm change. female genital mutilation child marriage knowledge attitudes and practices social behavioral change social norms multimedia intervention Ethiopia Background Female genital mutilation (FGM) and child marriage (CM) are deeply rooted harmful practices (HPs) that persist despite legal prohibition and extensive advocacy efforts. FGM comprises all procedures involving the partial or complete excision of female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons [1]. Globally, 230 million girls and women worldwide have undergone FGM, with the largest share in Africa (144 million), followed by Asia (80 million) and the Middle East (6 million). Every year, an estimated 4 million girls and women are subjected to FGM; without accelerated action, an estimated 27 million more girls will undergo FGM by 2030 [1,2]. CM, defined as the formal marriage or informal union of a child under age 18, presents a similarly staggering global challenge. An estimated 640 million women alive today were married in childhood. Each year, 12 million adolescent girls are married before the age of 18, and, every 3 seconds, an adolescent girl gets married somewhere in the world [3,4]. These HPs are driven by a combination of deep-rooted social norms, cultural beliefs, and religious traditions. These factors foster a sense of cultural identity that makes the abandonment of the practice elusive despite decades of efforts at community, national, and international levels. Since its launch in 2008, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)–United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Joint Programme on the Elimination of Female Genital Mutilation has worked toward ending FGM by 2030, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, target 5.3. In collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), the program has provided prevention and protection services to nearly 7 million women as of February 2025. In addition, 48 million people have made public declarations to abandon the practice, and 220 million individuals were reached by mass media messaging on the issue [5]. However, global crises such as conflict, drought, and the COVID-19 pandemic have increased vulnerability to HPs such as FGM and CM. These crises not only increase the risk but roll back the progress of interventions due to economic shock, school closure, and fund adjustment. Modeled estimates indicate that the risk factors for FGM and CM intensified beginning in 2020, threatening to offset previous declines in prevalence. In 2022 alone, an estimated 12 million girls became child brides [6]. Despite a gradual decline in prevalence, the UNFPA–UNICEF Joint Programme reported that as of 2023, FGM remained widely practiced in Ethiopia. With 25 million girls and women affected, the country bears the largest absolute burden of FGM in Eastern and Southern Africa [7]. Nevertheless, historical data indicate a clear downward trajectory; according to data from the Ethiopian Demographic and Health Surveys (EDHS, 2016), FGM prevalence fell from 80% in 2000 to 74% in 2005, and further to 65% in 2016. However, despite this national progress, prevalence remains high and exhibits significant regional variation. For instance, the 2016 EDHS shows that prevalence reached 99% in the Somali region, while it was as low as 23% in Tigray. The age at which FGM is performed also varies significantly by geography; in the Afar region, it typically occurs within the first 7 days after birth, whereas in parts of southern Ethiopia, the practice is often delayed until a girl reaches marriageable age [8]. CM presents a similarly complex challenge. Current data indicate that 4 in 10 married women in Ethiopia entered into marriage or union before their 18th birthday. Consequently, Ethiopia is home to 15 million child brides, including 6 million who were married before the age of 15 [9]. While EDHS data show that marriage by age 15 decreased from 13% in 2005 to 8% in 2011 and further to 6% in 2016, rates of marriage by age 18 remained relatively stable between 2011 and 2016, at 41% and 40%, respectively. Significant disparities exist between urban and rural areas, with the median age at first marriage ranging from just below 16 years among women in Amhara to 24 years among women in Addis Ababa [8]. The consequences of these early marriages—and the resulting early pregnancies—are profound, leading to severe physical, psychological, and social harm for young girls and women. Despite numerous interventions aimed at eliminating these HPs, prevalence rates have remained largely unchanged. In response, the National Costed Roadmap to End FGM and CM 2020–2024 was implemented in alignment with Proclamation No. 414/2004 of the Criminal Code of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, which criminalizes the performance or procurement of FGM [10]. Beyond legal measures, scholars emphasize that community engagement, intersectoral collaboration, girls’ education and empowerment, and comprehensive social and behavior change (SBC) are the most transformative interventions for shifting community norms and ending these practices at the grassroots level [11-13]. Multimedia-based SBC interventions have proven effective in shifting public attitudes and behaviors toward social issues. Research on mass media’s role in behavior change highlights that carefully designed media content can significantly influence knowledge, perceptions, and social norms. Pooled evidence found that sustained community exposure to anti-FGM and anti-CM campaigns through multimedia intervention resulted in individual persuasion, norm diffusion and increases in service linkages [14]. Similarly, evaluations of Ethiopian radio programs revealed significant reductions in harmful gender norms in communities exposed to consistent media messaging. Further evidence confirms that integrating media interventions with community dialogue amplifies impact, particularly in regions where FGM and CM are deeply entrenched [15]. Previous SBC communication interventions in Ethiopia and other African countries have demonstrated measurable reductions in FGM and CM prevalence following such media-led behavior change campaigns [16,17]. From January 2020 through June 2025, Population Media Center-Ethiopia (PMC-E), in collaboration with UNFPA, implemented a multimedia intervention to address FGM and CM in targeted districts of central, south, and southwest Ethiopia, including Mareko, Dalocha, Esera, and Dasenech. Prior to the intervention, formative audience research (FAR) was conducted to identify key behavioral barriers, enabling factors, and audience preferences. Building on these findings, the program identified lack of awareness, interlinked social norms, religiously rooted HPs, and other socioeconomic factors as primary drivers requiring strategic intervention. The PMC-E intervention comprised a radio talk show (RTS) designed to raise awareness and challenge gender norms, supplemented by advocacy workshops, capacity building for key influencers, distribution of promotional materials, and social and digital media engagement. To foster meaningful discussions on gender equality, audiences were segmented to include youth, religious and community leaders, health professionals, and local government officials. This evaluation aimed to assess the effect of PMC-E’s intervention in shifting knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding FGM and CM in targeted regions. Intervention description The multimedia intervention was comprised of an RTS, spot messages, and promotional materials, complemented by capacity building, advocacy workshops, and radio listener groups (RLGs). RTS program Yalaleke Guzo (Unfinished Journey) utilized a magazine-style format combining community voices, expert advice, and dramatic storytelling. A total of 215 editions were produced and broadcast. Program elements included stakeholder interviews, book reviews, short plays, vox pop segments (capturing diverse community voices on specific issues), poems, and narration. Broadcast via the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC) and local stations such as Silte and Jinka FM, the 30-minute program reached more than 5 million individuals. Messaging emphasized the health and social consequences of FGM and CM, legal prohibitions and enforcement, and the importance of parental involvement in HP abandonment through a storytelling approach. To catalyze the program and promote engagement within the target communities, 36 RLGs were established, each consisting of 10 members. These groups were equipped with multimedia tools to facilitate weekly collective listening. Members were expected to discuss the content, reach a consensus on the issues presented, and influence behavioral changes among other community members based on what they learned from the program about the consequence of HPs and the potential for legal prosecution. Capacity building and advocacy workshops To augment the reach and impact of the RTS at the community level, capacity-building activities were provided to frontline health extension workers, social workers, and teachers. Beyond these sessions, community-level advocacy was conducted with clan and religious leaders, local government officials (specifically kebele and woreda women and social affairs leaders), elders, and former circumcizers. These workshops were critical for addressing the cultural frameworks and belief systems interlinked with HPs in the targeted woredas. A total of 1,800 participants were involved in these capacity-building and advocacy efforts over the course of the project. Broadcast of radio and TV spot messages Radio and TV spot messages were critical for reinforcing key themes related to HPs. Thirty-three distinct spot messages were produced and broadcast across national and local media, reaching an estimated 2 million people. Social and digital media amplification To engage adolescents and youth who are increasingly active online, PMC utilized a multi-platform digital strategy encompassing Facebook, Telegram, YouTube, TikTok, and LinkedIn. PMC used monthly social media analysis to track message performance across all channels; data indicated that the intervention reached more than 3 million unique users and cultivated over 70,000 followers . To extend this reach to those with limited internet access, PMC also deployed an interactive voice response (IVR) system in collaboration with the digital consulting firm Viamo. This telephony-based digital component enabled 2,600 individuals to directly access messages about HPs via mobile phone. Promotional material distribution To reinforce the multimedia campaign, a diverse range of promotional materials—including booklets, flyers, posters, brochures, stickers, T-shirts, and billboard installations—were developed and distributed throughout the target areas. These materials featured key messages designed to inform and engage the public, while challenging prevailing community attitudes toward FGM and CM. The materials also incorporated human-interest stories of lived experiences to foster empathy and inspire collective action toward the abandonment of these practices. Study setting The evaluation covered 4 woredas (districts): Mareko and Dalocha (Central Ethiopia), Esera (Southwest Ethiopia), and Dasenech (South Ethiopia). These areas were purposefully selected due to their high documented prevalence of FGM and CM, as well as their inclusion in the 5-year PMC-E multimedia intervention. Study design A post-only mixed-methods design was employed to evaluate the intervention’s impact. The quantitative component used a comparative cross-sectional approach to analyze differences in key indicators between individuals either exposed or non-exposed to PMC multimedia programming. Household exposure status was determined by asking screening questions about exposure to the RTS, spot messages, promotional materials, social media, audio push messages (IVR), or PMC-trained change agents over the preceding 5 years. Participants who reported no exposure to any of these channels were categorized as the non-exposed group. To complement and triangulate these quantitative data, qualitative interviews were conducted to provide a deeper understanding of shifts in knowledge, social norms, and behavior. Population and sampling Quantitative survey sampling The study population included women of reproductive age (15–49 years) and heads of households with at least 1 daughter. The sample size for the comparative cross-sectional survey was calculated using a 2-population proportion formula, assuming a 16% expected change in exposure and behavior [15], with 95% confidence, 80% power, 5% margin of error, and a 10% non-response adjustment. The final sample included 403 participants: 205 exposed and 198 non-exposed. If participants exposed at least one from the following PMC-E intervention (RTS, Radio and TV spot messages, advocacy workshop, capacity building, social media and promotional materials) during intervention period considered as exposed. A multi-stage sampling approach was used. First, 2 kebeles (the smallest administrative units) were selected per woreda. Within these clusters, households were identified using systematically sampled until the target sample size was achieved. Qualitative sampling Sixteen qualitative activities were conducted, with 4 activities per woreda. These activities consisted of 8 key informant interviews/in-depth interviews (KIIs/IDIs) and 8 focus group discussions (FGDs), as illustrated in (Table 1). Each FGD was composed of 6–8 participants and was purposively selected to ensure diversity in gender, religion, residence, education, age, membership in women’s networks, exposure status to PMC-E multimedia interventions, and opinion leadership. This purposive multi-variation sampling ensured representativeness across key demographic and leadership strata, capturing both community-level and institutional perspectives. Data collection tools and procedures A structured SurveyCTO-based questionnaire was deployed, translated into the local language (Amharic), and back-translated into English for analysis. The tool was adapted from existing literature and evidence, comprising 6 sections: socio-demographic information, knowledge, attitudes, media exposure, behavioral intentions, and practices. The qualitative guides were aligned with the same theoretical constructs, exploring predisposing, enabling, and reinforcing factors influencing FGM and CM. These factors included beliefs, decision-making processes, gender norms, social pressures, multisectoral responses, and experiences with law enforcement. Quantitative data were collected digitally via SurveyCTO by 13 trained, gender-balanced, enumerators and 4 supervisors. Qualitative data (FGDs, KIIs, and IDIs) were collected by 8 experienced researchers fluent in the local languages (Qualitative interview guide). Interviews and discussions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim to preserve the authenticity of the responses. Data analysis and reporting Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. KAP were assessed using composite scales with validated items. Comparative assessments examined mean and proportion differences between exposed and non-exposed groups across knowledge, attitudes, behavioral intentions, and practices. Statistical significance was determined using chi-square tests and related measures of association. Practice was evaluated in 2 ways: cumulative prevalence among all participants and point prevalence in the 5 years following the PMC SBC multimedia intervention. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically using ATLAS.ti version 7.5.18 to identify contextual insights. Quantitative and qualitative results were triangulated to interpret changes in knowledge, attitudes, social norms, and behavioral practices. These findings informed policy and communication recommendations to promote community-level normative change. Scientific validity and rigor Quantitative data quality was ensured through pre-testing, expert content validation, and rigorous supervision. Internal consistency of composite scales was confirmed via Cronbach’s alpha (ranging from 0.72 to 0.87 across constructs such as knowledge and attitudes), confirming reliability. The SurveyCTO platform incorporated real-time validation, GPS verification, and logic checks. Enumerators received intensive training, and supervisors conducted frequent data audits. Triangulation across FGDs, KIIs, and quantitative surveys enhanced validity. Qualitative rigor was maintained through multiple strategies to ensure credibility, dependability, transferability, and confirmability. These strategies included prolonged engagement, peer debriefing, member checking, reflexivity, and thick description. Draft reports underwent internal review and verification by PMC-E staff. Operational definitions FGM: Self-reported partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. CM: Any formal or informal union or marriage of girls under age 18. Knowledge of FGM and CM: Assessed through a 13-item scale where responses were coded as True = 2, Don’t Know = 1, and False = 0 (with reverse coding for negative items). Scores were computed out of a maximum of 26; participants scoring above the mean were classified as having “good knowledge”, whereas those scoring below the mean were considered to have “poor knowledge.” Attitude toward FGM and CM: Assessed through a 16-item scale, with responses ranging from 1 = Strongly Disagree to 5 = Strongly Agree (with reverse coding for negative items). Scores were computed out of a maximum of 80; participants scoring above the mean were categorized as having an “unfavorable attitude” toward FGM and CM, whereas those scoring below the mean were considered to have a “favorable attitude.” Prevalence of FGM: The proportion of women aged 15–49 who self-report having undergone FGM. Girls’ prevalence of FGM: The proportion of girls aged 0–14 who have undergone FGM as reported by parents or guardians. Prevalence of CM: The proportion of women aged 20–24 who were married before age 18. Ethical Considerations In accordance with Helsinki declaration, this research is ethically cleared by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) of Jimma University (Ref: JUIH/IRB/0492/25). Informed consent and assent were obtained from all participants. Confidentiality was maintained through the use of pseudonyms and anonymized transcripts. Results Socio-demographic characteristics and household profile 403 individuals participated in the survey, with near-equal representation in the intervention-exposed (50.9%) and non-exposed (49.1%) groups. The majority of participants were female (73.7%), married (77.4%), and urban residents (86.4%). Educational attainment varied widely: 11.9% had no formal education, while 12.9% held a bachelor’s degree or higher. The predominant religious affiliations were Orthodox Christianity (48.1%) and Islam (32.8%). Respondents’ primary occupations included housewife (34.2%), private business operator (24.6%), or government employee (21.8%). Over half of households (56.1%) were categorized as poor by wealth index, and the average household size was 5.88 members. Community engagement was high, with 92.6% of respondents affiliated with traditional support groups such as Idir (Table 2). Qualitative participants ranged in age from 21 to 62 years, and FGDs comprised 5–8 individuals per session. Socio-behavioral shifts by exposure to the PMC-E media intervention Knowledge about FGM and CM Overall knowledge about FGM and CM was significantly higher among the exposed group (93.2%) compared to the non-exposed group (84.6%; p < 0.001), representing an 8.6 percentage point difference. Significant differences were also observed across several specific knowledge items between exposed and non-exposed groups. The exposed group demonstrated better understanding of the mental health effects of FGM, such as anxiety and depression (96.1% vs. 83.8%; mean = 3.02, p < 0.001), were more likely to reject the myth linking FGM to chastity or moral character (mean = 3.05, p < 0.001), and better understood that FGM causes physical harm (p = 0.049). Regarding CM, the exposed group demonstrated better awareness of the economic benefits of delaying marriage (86.8% vs. 77.3%; mean = 3.13, p = 0.009), understood that CM increases maternal mortality (98.4% vs. 90.5%. p < 0.0001), and recognized that CM increases spousal abuse (95.1% vs. 87.4%, p = 0.005) (Table 3). The qualitative findings were consistent with the survey results. FGD and IDI participants reported that advocacy through relatable body analogies helped the community better understand the severity of FGM. "I gave awareness… with example about losing of one finger from five. As your four fingers do no work appropriately, cutting organ like as fingers it doesn’t work task. Moreover, I also use sensory body to give analogy of harm. For example, there are five sense organs. From five sense organs, as eye helps to see, she is losing one of reproductive organs… Therefore, when removed that organ it left with scar." (IDI, Mareko, Advocate) Participants also noted that youth had gained awareness of legal protection through various channels and have started to resist HPs. “I joked with my daughter about circumcising her. She said, ‘I will call the police, and you’ll be arrested.’ That’s how much awareness they have from school.” (FGD, Mareko, P2) However, misconceptions about medical, sociocultural, and religious justifications for FGM persisted among older generations. Participants reported that older community members believe that FGM ensures marriageability and controls sexual desire. "If she is not circumcised, no man will marry her. They say she is not clean, she is rebellious. That’s why even educated families still do it." (IDI, RLG) "People say if not circumcised, she will be over-stimulated, she won’t control herself, she will break household items. These beliefs are stronger than science here." (Esera Men’s FGD, P3) Some elders and parents associate FGM with ensuring community acceptance and honor. “First an uncircumcised woman loses her honor; she is ostracized from society… she cannot find a husband. That is why she is circumcised.” (KII, Dasenech, FGM Practitioner Similarly, others viewed FGM as deeply intertwined with community concepts of bodily cleanliness and modesty. "They say the girl has a bad smell if not circumcised. They say she’s not pure. These are myths, but they are very powerful in the community." (IDI, Survivor) Despite several awareness-raising campaigns via different channels, some participants framed FGM as a religious obligation. “There is still attitude that this is Sunnah. There are opinions of scholars who say it should be done, although others say it’s not required.” (FGD, Mareko, P6) Attitudes towards FGM and CM FGM The exposed group demonstrated significantly greater rejection of sociocultural justifications for FGM compared to the non-exposed group. Exposed participants were less likely to agree with common pro-FGM beliefs, including that FGM ensures virginity (1% vs. 4%, χ² = 7.92, p = 0.005) or improves marriage prospects (1.5% vs. 5%, χ² = 4.51, p = 0.034). The exposed group also showed higher recognition of FGM’s harms: 83.4% acknowledged its health risks (vs. 72.2%, χ² = 7.33, p = 0.007), 83.9% recognized the psychological trauma it causes (vs. 68.2%, χ² = 11.42, p < 0.001), and 92.7% rejected the notion that condemning FGM’s harms is “weak” (vs. 79.8%, χ² = 13.70, p < 0.001). The largest between-group differences were observed for two beliefs: agreement that “FGM avoids family shame” was significantly lower in the exposed group (0.5% vs. 5.1%, p = 0.005), while agreement that “FGM causes psychological trauma and anxiety” was significantly higher (83.9% vs. 68.2%, p < 0.001). However, there were no significant differences between groups regarding religious justifications for FGM, perceptions of fairness around marriage benefits, or beliefs about sexual autonomy (Table 4). Qualitative findings also confirmed that the religious and deep-rooted myths underlying FGM remain persistent in the community. FGD and IDI participants noted that uncut girls face rejection, insults, and stigma, even from their own families. Some participants also remarked on perceived benefits of FGM in shaping girls’ sexual discipline and marriageability. “Many times, people insult who did not undergo FGM… they insult by saying you eat the money of the child… by saying your child has waste, it is not disposed.” (IDI, Esara, CM Survivor's Father) "People say if not circumcised, she will be over-stimulated, she won’t control herself, she will break household items. These beliefs are stronger than science here." (FGD, P3) "If she is not circumcised, no man will marry her. They say she is not clean; she is rebellious. That’s why even educated families still do it." (IDI, RLG) CM Overall, 83.4% of the exposed group demonstrated an unfavorable attitude toward CM, significantly higher than 78.1% in the non-exposed group (χ² = 11.25, p < 0.001). Significant differences were also observed across multiple key statements. Only 2.4% of the exposed group agreed that early marriage helps girls settle down, compared to 13.6% of the non-exposed group (χ² = 28.146, p < 0.001). Similarly, only 8.8% of the exposed group agreed that early marriage protects girls from dishonor, versus 13.6% in the non-exposed group (χ² = 24.962, p < 0.001). Regarding perceptions of the impact of early marriage on education, 90.7% of the exposed group disagreed that marriage before age 18 ends a girl’s schooling, compared to 80.8% of the non-exposed group (χ² = 9.606, p = 0.048), suggesting stronger recognition of CM’s consequences for girls’ education. The exposed group also more strongly rejected economic, social, and autonomy-based justifications for CM and was more likely to support delaying marriage as a path to girls' independence (Table 5). Practice and intention regarding FGM and CM Practice of FGM and CM The practice of FGM and CM was assessed both before and after project implementation. 855 girls/daughters were identified within the sampled households. Of these, 243 (28.4%) had ever been married, of which only 12 were married before the age of 18, indicating a CM prevalence of 4.9%. The overall prevalence of FGM among participants was 262 (32.7%), of which almost all (99.6%) had undergone the practice before the age of 18. However, no statistically significant differences in FGM or CM were observed between exposed and non-exposed groups (Table 6). Qualitative findings revealed shifting practices of FGM and CM in the community, with some changes appearing positive and genuine, and others remaining superficial or symbolic. Participants described intergenerational dialogue in which increased awareness led families to spare younger generations from HPs. "I was circumcised. And my older sisters were circumcised. But due to awareness… my younger sister has not be circumcised and also my children too." (IDI, Mareko, Advocate) Some participants noted that social sanctions are diminishing the practice. Community groups such as Idir have begun establishing regulations and punishments for those who perform FGM. However, enforcement of these locally established rules remains inconsistent. “Our idir decided 10,000 ETB as punishment. Anyone who performs FGM will be excluded from social participation.” (FGD, Mareko, P6) At the same time, participants reported that practices have shifted towards secrecy rather than abandonment. Qualitative data indicate that FGM is increasingly performed in secret in response to legal prohibitions, government penalties, and interventions such as PMC’s multimedia campaigns and public dialogues. Improved case reporting and law enforcement appear to have driven the practice underground rather than eliminating it. "The community leaders send their daughters to rural areas where nobody checks. After a month, they return. It’s all done secretly now."(Esera FGD, Male Participant) "They do the cultural part, dancing, feeding, but the cutting happens later, somewhere else. The girl disappears for a few days and returns silently." (IDI, RLG Member) Reported intentions for FGM and CM The study revealed clear differences in intentions regarding FGM and CM between exposed and non-exposed groups. Regarding FGM, only 0.5% of the exposed group were uncertain or willing to circumcise their daughters, compared to 4.1% in the non-exposed group (χ² = 9.42, p = 0.009). Similarly, only 1% of the exposed group would consider marrying off their daughters before age 18, compared to 6.6% in the non-exposed group (χ² = 9.14, p = 0.010). The exposed group also reported significantly higher rates of taking preventive action against FGM (84.3% vs 70.4%; χ² = 15.66, p = 0.004) and stronger commitment to resist early marriage pressure (94.1% vs 85.3%; χ² = 11.72, p = 0.008) (Table 7). Institutional support, legal enforcement, and challenges According to qualitative findings, community-based structures such as Idir groups and kebele leadership are beginning to support legal enforcement against FGM and CM, though their involvement remains limited. Participants noted that policy responses are increasingly seen as critical, with swift action credited for preventing CM and rescuing at-risk girls. “I told the police… they arrested him for 3 days… now police keep them… now thanks to God, it is peace.” (IDI, Esara, CM Survivor's Father) However, several challenges hinder the institutionalization and effective legal enforcement of anti-FGM and anti-CM efforts: Community elders intervening in legal processes. Customary dispute resolution systems often undermine formal legal enforcement. Elders often remove cases from formal legal systems, resolving them according to traditional practices instead. "There are elder (hafa shumagile) people… they ask court to hand over case to see at community level… based on their custom." (IDI, Mareko, Advocate) Victims claiming consent to avoid stigma . Girls often claim consent to marriage even when coerced, attempting to preserve their social standing and avoid further stigma. "She may say ‘my life is once damaged’ and I don’t want enter issue’. She tries to accept marriage." (IDI, Mareko, Advocate) Discussion The primary objective of this evaluation was to assess the effectiveness of a multimedia SBC intervention in increasing awareness and shifting attitudes, norms, and practices related to FGM and CM. The study compared areas where PMC programming had been implemented to areas that did not receive the intervention. Consistent with established findings, the analysis showed statistically significant differences in knowledge and attitudes toward FGM and CM between exposed and non-exposed participants. Participants exposed to the multimedia SBC intervention demonstrated significantly higher knowledge levels regarding FGM and CM, with 93.4% scoring high compared to 84.6% in the non-exposed group (p < 0.001). This difference reflects an 8.6 percentage point improvement attributable to targeted SBC messaging. These findings are consistent with existing evidence. For instance, a study conducted in Ethiopia’s Oromia region found that individuals with access to more than 2 sources of information on FGM were 3 times more likely to possess adequate knowledge compared to those with 1 or no source [18]. Such results underscore the importance of diversified and sustained communication strategies in enhancing public awareness and shifting social norms. Beyond HPs, exposure to health messaging through SBC interventions has been shown to significantly increase knowledge in other health domains. An Indian study found that participants exposed to SBC interventions were twice as likely to have better knowledge about menstrual health and hygiene [19]. Furthermore, findings from a UNICEF evaluation in Ethiopia reaffirm the pivotal role of media engagement, particularly RTS programs, in raising awareness of and shifting attitudes toward FGM and CM [15]. In contrast, studies conducted in rural communities of Enugu State, Nigeria, revealed that mass media engagement was ineffective in raising awareness and shifting behaviors related to FGM and CM [20]. This discrepancy might be explained by the study’s selection of remote rural sites with limited network and electricity access, where deeply rooted cultural values may have contributed to media ineffectiveness. Moreover, the Nigerian study lacked baseline data, audience segmentation research, and a comparison group, making it difficult to determine whether infrastructural constraints limited the intervention's impact. The UNICEF evaluation shows that multimedia interventions succeed when they reach engaged audiences through multiple channels strategically chosen based on where the target audience actually obtains their information [15]. This consideration is essential for optimizing reach, resonance, and behavioral impact. In alignment with this approach, PMC consistently designs its multimedia SBC interventions based on FAR. This strategy is evident in the current post-project evaluation, which confirms the multimedia intervention’s success in shifting target audiences’ knowledge and attitudes toward FGM and CM. Anti-FGM attitudes were higher among the exposed group (90.2%) compared to the non‑exposed group (81.4%), with a 6.01 percentage point difference attributable to the intervention (p = 0.014). Similarly, rejection of CM was greater among exposed participants (83.4%) than non‑exposed participants (78.1%), showing an 11.25 percentage difference (p < 0.001). This finding represents a statistically significant positive impact of the intervention. These findings align with studies from northern Nigeria, which found that storytelling and multimedia entertainment-education are critical approaches for shifting community attitudes toward early marriage [21]. According to UNICEF's evaluation of RTS effectiveness, media engagement remains relevant for shifting attitudes toward FGM and CM [15]. PMC and UNICEF's collaborative experience with other health issues further demonstrates the effectiveness of multimedia interventions; for example, their work on under-5 diarrheal disease in Ethiopia showed significant impact in shifting norms [22]. However, a study in Bangladesh using an edutainment approach did not show significant changes in community attitudes toward FGM and CM, although the study confirmed that behavioral experiments were less prone to social desirability bias in assessing sensitive topics [23]. The possible reason for the difference is that the investigators in Bangladesh focused on evaluating a single media intervention—a television series designed to promote positive role models—making it difficult to determine attribution in the presence of multiple media sources and variable exposure patterns. In the present study, while quantitative findings demonstrated positive shifts in knowledge and attitudes toward FGM and CM, qualitative findings uncovered persistent myths and misconceptions deeply rooted in intergenerational and sociocultural belief systems. Even though participants reported that most of the community is aware of FGM and CM, FGM is still associated with notions of marriageability, bodily cleanliness, and religious obligation—often referred to as “Sunna” within Muslim communities. This justification is consistent with findings from studies conducted in Spain and the United Kingdom, where FGM was reported to be highly prevalent [24]. Similarly, in Ethiopia’s Afar and Somali regions, hygienic-esthetic and religious-spiritual factors were identified as major reasons for the continuation of the practice [25]. Surprisingly, across all study sites, a common belief held that FGM serves to calm girls and suppress perceived excessive sexual desire, reflecting entrenched sociocultural narratives that continue to justify the practice. Recognizing these narratives, KII participants emphasized the critical need for sustained community engagement strategies complemented by targeted multimedia awareness interventions to effectively challenge and transform harmful social norms. Regarding CM, the survey results align with qualitative findings. More than three-fourth of participants agreed with some CM justifications, such as the claims that early marriage leads to pregnancy-related complications and ends schooling, or that delaying marriage helps achieve independence. However, the survey results contradicted qualitative findings on justifications related to family honor, the girl’s honor, and community acceptance. A majority of survey respondents disagreed with sociocultural and family honor justifications. This contradiction may be due to social desirability bias. Furthermore, qualitative studies often involve longer rapport-building, enabling more honest disclosure of taboo or stigmatized beliefs [26]. In the current study, the overall prevalence of FGM was 262/855 (32.7%), of which almost all (99.6%) had undergone the practice before the age of 18. Of the total women interviewed, 12 were married before the age of 18, indicating a CM prevalence of 4.9%. However, no significant differences in FGM and CM practice were observed between exposed and non-exposed groups (p = 0.38 and p = 0.55, respectively). The prevalence of FGM in this study was much lower than in other studies conducted in Ethiopia: EDHS 2016 reported 65% nationally, with nearly three-quarters (72%) in Afar region and 85% in Somali region having undergone FGM, and the pooled African prevalence was 56.4% [8,27,28]. Similarly, the reported practice of CM in this research is lower than in other Ethiopian studies: 33.7% in Harari region, 34.7% in Amhara region, and a pooled prevalence of 56.34% [29-31]. These differences could be due to the targeted behavioral intervention in the last 5 years, variations in when and where studies were conducted, and sociocultural differences across study sites. Despite the notable decline in overall FGM prevalence, qualitative findings underscore the persistence of underground practices that evade legal accountability. Moreover, recent trends indicate a strategic shift in the timing and location of the procedure, with some communities increasingly conducting FGM during school holidays or when girls are temporarily out of school, thereby minimizing the risk of detection and legal repercussions. Conclusion The multimedia SBC intervention effectively increased awareness and shifted attitudes toward FGM and CM, through no significant differences in practice were observed between exposed and non-exposed groups. The multimedia intervention was found to be critical in shifting intentions to commit HPs and in supporting legal enforcement efforts. However, deeply rooted social norms related to misconceptions and myths about FGM and CM remained persistent, sustaining the practices. Moreover, entrenched cultural beliefs, religious misinterpretations, and traditional legal arbitration by elders continue to impede sustainable abandonment of FGM and CM. The role of male figures, teachers, religious leaders, and multi-sector stakeholders remains under-leveraged. Scaling community dialogues to involve all layers of the community, empowering youth, facilitating intergenerational dialogue, engaging men, empowering girls, coordinating stakeholders, and strengthening legal enforcement are critical for shifting social norms and accelerating the abandonment of FGM and CM in Ethiopia. Abbreviations CM: Child Marriage EBC: Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation EDHS: Ethiopia Demographic Health Survey FAR: Formative Audience Research FGD: Focus Group Discussion FGM: Female Genital Mutilation HDA: Health Development Army HEW: Health Extension Worker HF: Health Facility HH: Household HP: Harmful Practice IDI: In-Depth Interview IRB: Institutional Review Board IVR: Interactive Voice Response KAP: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices KII: Key Informant Interview PMC: Population Media Center PMC-E: Population Media Center-Ethiopia RLG: Radio Listener Group RTS: Radio Talk Show SBC: Social and Behavior Change SD: Standard Deviation SDG: Sustainable Development Goal UNFPA: United Nations Population Fund UNICEF: United Nations Children’s Fund WDA: Women’s Development Army WHO: World Health Organization WWSA: Woreda Women and Social Affairs Office Declarations Ethics approval and consent to participate The study was reviewed and ethically approved by the Institute of Health, Jimma University, with reference number JUIH/IRB/0492/25. Informed consent was obtained from every respondent. Data were collected in a private manner. Confidentiality of the data was maintained through the use of pseudonyms during interviews, and all identifiers were removed from transcriptions and reporting. Consent for publication All participants provided consent for publication of anonymized data and findings delivered from this study. Availability of data and materials The data sets generated and/or analyzed during the current study are available from PMC-E upon reasonable request. Competing interests The authors declare they have no competing interests. Funding This research was financially supported by PMC through a grant provided by UNFPA. The study was implemented by an independent consulting firm contracted for data collection and analysis. Authors’ contributions KM: Conceptualization, methodology, reviewing and editing, supervision of data collection, quality assurance, and manuscript writing. ME: Conceptualization, methodology, reviewing and editing, and quality control. YK: Conceptualization, data curation, formal analysis, investigation, methodology, project administration, resources, software, visualization, and writing—original draft. KA: Reviewing, project administration, and management. SZ: Reviewing, project administration, and supervision. AM: Reviewing the manuscript, editing, and quality assurance. AA: support in revising the manuscript, support in conceptualization of research idea ST: Supporting manuscript writing, report editing, and reviewing. BF: Reviewing and editing. BJ: Reviewing and editing. HE: Reviewing, methodology, and supervision. AHR: Conceptualization, methodology, reviewing, finalizing, and quality control. Acknowledgements We acknowledge the study participants, data collectors, and supervisors for their active participation in the study. 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Sampling distribution of FGDs/KIIs/IDIs for the FGM-CM study, May 2025, PMC-E Districts FGDs IDIs/KIIs Total Mareko Female residents (semi-urban) = 1 Community leaders (town) = 1 Advocate against FGM/CM (town) = 1 WWSA representative = 1 4 Dalocha Male residents (town) = 1 Woreda multisector leaders = 1 Advocate against CM/FGM (rural) = 1 Youth RLG change agent = 1 4 Esera Male residents (semi-urban) = 1 Woreda multisector leaders = 1 Victims of CM with trauma (town) = 1 Female educated survivor of CM = 1 4 Dasenech Community leaders = 1 Female residents (urban) = 1 FGM practitioner = 1 Youth RLG change agent = 1 4 Total 8 8 16 Abbreviations: CM, child marriage; FGD, focus group discussion; FGM, female genital mutilation; IDI, in-depth interview; KII, key informant interview; PMC-E, Population Media Center-Ethiopia; RLG, radio listener group; WWSA, Woreda Women and Social Affairs Office Table 2 . Socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents and household profile, PMC-E evaluation study, target districts, May 2025 (N = 403: exposed = 205, non-exposed = 198) Variables Exposed (n = 205) Non-exposed (n = 198) Total (N = 403) Statistics District Dasenech (South Omo) 55 (26.8%) 48 (24.2%) 103 (25.6%) χ² = 0.04, p = 0.84 Mareko Special Woreda 50 (24.4%) 50 (25.3%) 100 (24.8%) Essera (Dawro Zone) 50 (24.4%) 50 (25.3%) 100 (24.8%) Dalucha (Silte Zone) 50 (24.4%) 50 (25.3%) 100 (24.8%) Residence/Kebele Urban 178 (86.8%) 170 (85.9%) 348 (86.4%) χ² = 0.36, p = 0.55 Semi-urban town 27 (13.2%) 28 (14.1%) 55 (13.6%) Sex Female 149 (72.7%) 145 (73.2%) 294 (72.9%) χ² = 0.01, p = 0.92 Male 53 (25.9%) 52 (26.3%) 105 (26.1%) Marital status Married 156 (76.1%) 153 (77.3%) 309 (76.7%) χ² = 0.09, p = 0.99 Single 25 (12.2%) 24 (12.1%) 49 (12.2%) Widowed 10 (4.9%) 10 (5.1%) 20 (5.0%) Divorced 11 (5.4%) 11 (5.6%) 22 (5.5%) Religion Orthodox 97 (47.3%) 95 (48.0%) 192 (47.6%) χ² = 0.04, p = 0.99 Muslim 66 (32.2%) 65 (32.8%) 131 (32.5%) Protestant 38 (18.5%) 37 (18.7%) 75 (18.6%) Other (Traditional) 1 (0.5%) 0 (0%) 1 (0.2%) Education No formal education 24 (11.7%) 23 (11.6%) 47 (11.7%) χ² = 0.03, p = 1.00 Able to read/write 26 (12.7%) 25 (12.6%) 51 (12.7%) Primary (1–8) 54 (26.3%) 52 (26.3%) 106 (26.3%) Secondary (9–12) 41 (20.0%) 40 (20.2%) 81 (20.1%) Tertiary (certificate >12) 15 (7.3%) 14 (7.1%) 29 (7.2%) Tertiary (college diploma) 17 (8.3%) 17 (8.6%) 34 (8.4%) Tertiary (bachelor’s degree or higher) 26 (12.7%) 25 (12.6%) 51 (12.7%) Occupation Housewife 69 (33.7%) 68 (34.3%) 137 (34.0%) χ² = 0.02, p = 0.99 Merchant/private business 50 (24.4%) 48 (24.2%) 98 (24.3%) Government employee 44 (21.5%) 43 (21.7%) 87 (21.6%) Student 15 (7.3%) 15 (7.6%) 30 (7.4%) Farmer 14 (6.8%) 14 (7.1%) 28 (6.9%) Daily laborer 5 (2.4%) 4 (2.0%) 9 (2.2%) Other 5 (2.4%) 4 (2.0%) 9 (2.2%) Spouse/HH head education No formal education 20 (9.8%) 20 (10.1%) 40 (9.9%) χ² = 0.01, p = 1.00 Able to read/write 22 (10.7%) 22 (11.1%) 44 (10.9%) Primary (1–8) 39 (19.0%) 38 (19.2%) 77 (19.1%) Secondary (9–12) 33 (16.1%) 32 (16.2%) 65 (16.1%) Tertiary (certificate >12) 13 (6.3%) 12 (6.1%) 25 (6.2%) Tertiary (college diploma) 23 (11.2%) 22 (11.1%) 45 (11.2%) Tertiary (bachelor’s degree or higher) 31 (15.1%) 30 (15.2%) 61 (15.1%) Not applicable 14 (6.8%) 14 (7.1%) 28 (6.9%) Spouse/HH head occupation Merchant/private business 54 (26.3%) 53 (26.8%) 107 (26.6%) χ² = 0.01, p = 0.99 Government employee 53 (25.9%) 52 (26.3%) 105 (26.1%) Farmer 35 (17.1%) 34 (17.2%) 69 (17.1%) Housewife 27 (13.2%) 26 (13.1%) 53 (13.2%) Daily laborer 6 (2.9%) 6 (3.0%) 12 (3.0%) Other 5 (2.4%) 4 (2.0%) 9 (2.2%) Not applicable 14 (6.8%) 14 (7.1%) 28 (6.9%) Wealth Index Poor 113 (55.1%) 111 (56.1%) 224 (55.6%) χ² = 0.05, p = 0.98 Medium 46 (22.4%) 45 (22.7%) 91 (22.6%) Rich 43 (21.0%) 42 (21.2%) 85 (21.1%) HH Profile (Mean ± SD) Household size 5.69 ± 1.74 5.91 ± 1.93 5.88 ± 1.80 - Male children 2.13 ± 1.21 2.15 ± 1.49 2.14 ± 1.44 - Female children 2.25 ± 1.09 2.23 ± 1.19 2.24 ± 1.15 - Teenage girls (10–17 years) 0.95 ± 0.73 0.93 ± 0.66 0.94 ± 0.68 - Membership in social groups Idir 187 (91.2%) 183 (92.4%) 370 (91.8%) χ² = 0.21, p = 0.65 Savings and loan group 137 (66.8%) 134 (67.7%) 271 (67.2%) χ² = 0.04, p = 0.84 WDA/HDA 49 (23.9%) 48 (24.2%) 97 (24.1%) χ² = 0.01, p = 0.93 Women’s income group 40 (19.5%) 39 (19.7%) 79 (19.6%) χ² = 0.00, p = 0.96 Senbetie/mahber/debo 33 (16.1%) 32 (16.2%) 65 (16.1%) χ² = 0.00, p = 0.99 Women’s militia group 22 (10.7%) 22 (11.1%) 44 (10.9%) χ² = 0.01, p = 0.91 Model family 18 (8.8%) 18 (9.1%) 36 (8.9%) χ² = 0.01, p = 0.92 Adolescent group 8 (3.9%) 7 (3.5%) 15 (3.7%) χ² = 0.04, p = 0.84 Abbreviations: HDA, Health Development Army; HH, household; SD, standard deviation; WDA, Women's Development Army Table 3 . Knowledge about FGM and CM, PMC-E evaluation study, target districts, May 2025 (N = 403: exposed = 205, non-exposed = 198) Knowledge variable about FGM and CM Exposed (n = 205) Non-exposed (n = 198) Total (N = 403) p-value FGM causes lifelong physical harm (True) 204 (99.5%) 192 (97.0%) 396 (98.3%) 0.049 FGM leads to mental health issues (True) 197 (96.1%) 166 (83.8%) 363 (90.1%) <0.001 FGM increases HIV risk (True) 205 (100%) 195 (98.5%) 400 (99.3%) 0.056 FGM is criminalized in Ethiopia (True) 201 (98.0%) 189 (95.5%) 390 (96.8%) 0.123 FGM enhances chastity/moral character (False) 163 (79.5%) 127 (64.1%) 290 (72.0%) <0.001 Religious scriptures require FGM (False) 182 (88.8%) 167 (84.3%) 349 (86.6%) 0.178 FGM hinders sexual health (True) 165 (80.5%) 149 (75.3%) 314 (77.9%) 0.197 CM interrupts education (True) 197 (96.1%) 181 (91.4%) 378 (93.8%) 0.042 Girls under 18 are biologically mature for marriage (False) 175 (85.4%) 159 (80.3%) 334 (82.9%) 0.162 CM increases maternal mortality (True) 202 (98.5%) 179 (90.4%) 381 (94.5%) <0.001 CM increases spousal abuse (True) 195 (95.1%) 173 (87.4%) 368 (91.3%) 0.005 CM is outlawed in Ethiopia (True) 201 (98.0%) 188 (94.9%) 389 (96.5%) 0.082 Delaying marriage improves girls’ independence (True) 178 (86.8%) 153 (77.3%) 331 (82.1%) 0.009 Comprehensive knowledge (mean % correct) 93.2% 84.6% 88.9% <0.001 Note: "I don't know" responses were merged with "No" due to low percentages across all items. Values in bold indicate statistical significance (p < 0.05). Abbreviations: CM, child marriage; FGM, female genital mutilation; PMC, Population Media Center; PMC-E, Population Media Center-Ethiopia Table 4 . Attitude toward FGM statements, PMC-E evaluation study, target districts, May 2025 (N = 403: exposed = 205, non-exposed = 198) Attitudinal statement about FGM Response Exposed (n = 205) Non-exposed (n = 198) χ² p-value FGM ensures a girl’s virginity and moral behavior. Agree 0 (0.0%) 2 (1.0%) 3.91 0.048 Disagree 205 (100%) 196 (99.0%) Ensuring virginity and moral behavior through FGM is valuable. Agree 5 (2.4%) 5 (2.5%) 0.00 0.955 Disagree 200 (97.6%) 193 (97.5%) FGM increases a girl’s marriage prospects by cleansing her body. Agree 1 (0.5%) 5 (2.5%) 2.85 0.091 Disagree 204 (99.5%) 193 (97.5%) Improving marriage prospects through FGM is fair. Agree 2 (1.0%) 3 (1.5%) 0.24 0.625 Disagree 203 (99.0%) 195 (98.5%) FGM is a religious requirement. Agree 1 (0.5%) 4 (2.0%) 1.93 0.165 Disagree 204 (99.5%) 194 (98.0%) Fulfilling religious obligations through FGM is just. Agree 1 (0.5%) 2 (1.0%) 0.37 0.542 Disagree 204 (99.5%) 196 (99.0%) FGM protects the family from shame. Agree 1 (0.5%) 10 (5.1%) 7.90 0.005 Disagree 204 (99.5%) 188 (94.9%) Avoiding family shame through FGM is acceptable. Agree 3 (1.5%) 8 (4.0%) 2.52 0.112 Disagree 202 (98.5%) 190 (96.0%) FGM causes long-term physical and reproductive health problems. ⃰⃰ ⃰ Agree 171 (83.4%) 143 (72.2%) 7.33 0.007 Disagree 34 (16.6%) 55 (27.8%) Condemning FGM's health harms is a sign of weakness.⃰ ⃰ Agree 13 (6.3%) 43 (21.7%) 10.12 0.001 Disagree 192 (93.7%) 155 (78.3%) FGM leads to psychological trauma and anxiety. ⃰ ⃰ Agree 172 (83.9%) 135 (68.2%) 13.74 <0.001 Disagree 33 (16.1%) 63 (31.8%) Causing FGM’s psychological harms is unfair.⃰ ⃰ Agree 163 (79.5%) 141 (71.2%) 3.74 0.053 Disagree 42 (20.5%) 57 (28.8%) FGM is necessary for community acceptance. Agree 5 (2.4%) 14 (7.1%) 4.81 0.028 Disagree 200 (97.6%) 184 (92.9%) Gaining community acceptance through FGM is just. Agree 3 (1.5%) 8 (4.0%) 2.52 0.112 Disagree 202 (98.5%) 190 (96.0%) FGM restricts women’s sexual autonomy. ⃰ ⃰ Agree 112 (54.6%) 92 (46.4%) 2.69 0.101 Disagree 93 (45.4%) 106 (53.6%) Restricting sexual autonomy through FGM is important. Agree 11 (5.4%) 5 (2.5%) 2.13 0.144 Disagree 194 (94.6%) 193 (97.5%) Overall anti-FGM attitude (% with attitudes against FGM) ± 90.2% 81.4% 6.01 0.014 ⃰ ⃰ Anti-FGM statement (agreement indicates positive attitude toward abandoning FGM). ± Composite measure of overall attitude based on responses across all items. Abbreviations: FGM, female genital mutilation; PMC-E, Population Media Center-Ethiopia Table 5 . Attitudes toward CM statements, PMC-E evaluation study, target districts, May 2025 (N = 403: exposed = 205, non-exposed = 198) Attitudinal statement about CM Response Exposed (n = 205) Non-exposed (n = 198) χ² p-value Marrying a girl early protects her from premarital sex and dishonor. Agree 18 (8.8%) 27 (13.6%) 24.962 <0.001 Disagree 187 (91.2%) 171 (86.4%) Avoiding dishonor/premarital sex through early marriage is justifiable. Agree 10 (4.9%) 28 (14.1%) 16.256 0.003 Disagree 195 (95.1%) 170 (85.9%) Early marriage eases the family’s economic burden. Agree 6 (2.9%) 17 (8.6%) 9.398 0.024 Disagree 199 (97.1%) 181 (91.4%) Reducing economic burden through early marriage is fair. Agree 6 (2.9%) 16 (8.1%) 11.016 0.012 Disagree 199 (97.1%) 182 (91.9%) Girls who marry early are better respected. Agree 5 (2.4%) 15 (7.6%) 10.127 0.018 Disagree 200 (97.6%) 183 (92.4%) Gaining respect through early marriage is valuable. Agree 7 (3.4%) 17 (8.6%) 13.483 0.009 Disagree 198 (96.6%) 181 (91.4%) Early marriage ensures girls settle down. Agree 5 (2.4%) 27 (13.6%) 28.146 <0.001 Disagree 200 (97.6%) 171 (86.4%) Settling down early for girls is valuable. Agree 58 (28.3%) 68 (34.3%) 12.302 0.015 Disagree 147 (71.7%) 130 (65.7%) Early marriage exposes girls to pregnancy-related complications.⃰ ⃰ Disagree 182 (88.8%) 152 (76.8%) 10.713 0.030 Agree 23 (11.2%) 46 (23.2%) Facing complications through early marriage is justifiable. ⃰ ⃰ Disagree 116 (56.6%) 103 (52.0%) 2.802 0.591 Agree 89 (43.4%) 95 (48.0%) Marriage before age 18 ends a girl’s schooling. ⃰⃰ ⃰ Disagree 186 (90.7%) 160 (80.8%) 9.606 0.048 Agree 19 (9.3%) 38 (19.2%) Losing educational opportunity through early marriage is fair.⃰⃰ Disagree 194 (94.6%) 182 (91.9%) 9.899 0.042 Agree 11 (5.4%) 16 (8.1%) Girls have no decision-making power in early marriages.⃰⃰ Disagree 31 (15.1%) 41 (20.7%) 5.922 0.205 Agree 174 (84.9%) 157 (79.3%) Limiting a girl’s autonomy through CM is justifiable. ⃰ ⃰ Disagree 182 (88.8%) 175 (88.4%) 7.085 0.131 Agree 23 (11.2%) 23 (11.6%) Delaying marriage helps girls achieve independence.⃰ ⃰ Disagree 161 (78.5%) 134 (67.7%) 15.265 0.004 Agree 44 (21.5%) 64 (32.3%) Gaining independence through delayed marriage is acceptable. ⃰ ⃰ Disagree 163 (79.5%) 135 (68.2%) 13.925 0.008 Agree 42 (20.5%) 63 (31.8%) Overall attitude (opposed to CM)± 83.4% 78.1% 11.25 <0.001 ⃰ ⃰ Anti-CM statement (response pattern varies; see note below). ± Composite measure of overall attitude based on responses across all items. Note : Statements marked with ⃰ ⃰ are anti-CM statements where the "favorable" response (indicating opposition to CM) varies depending on the question wording. For some, agreement indicates anti-CM attitude; for others, disagreement does. Abbreviations : CM, child marriage; PMC-E, Population Media Center-Ethiopia Table 6 . Prevalence of FGM and CM, PMC-E evaluation study May 2025 (N = 855: exposed = 442 and non-exposed = 413) Variables Non-exposed (n = 442) Exposed (n = 413) Total Statistics Freq % Freq % Freq % Female children’s marital status Married 122 29.5 121 27.4 243 28.4 χ² = 0.446, p = 0.494 Unmarried 291 70.5 321 72.6 612 71.6 Total 413 100 442 100 855 100 CM status (n = 243) CM (married before 18) 7 5.7 5 4.1 12 4.9 χ² = 0.352, p = 0.553 Legal age of marriage (18 or older) 115 94.3 116 95.9 231 95.1 Total 122 100 121 100 243 100 FGM history (n = 654)⃰ Yes 107 36.0 117 32.8 224 34.3 χ² = 0.77, p = 0.380 No 190 64.0 240 67.2 430 65.7 Total 297 100 357 69.2 654 100 Prevalence of FGM at < 15 years old Yes 107 100 116 99.1 223 99.6 ± No 0 - 1 0.9 1 0.4 Total 107 100 117 100 224 100 ⃰ Missing data are present. ±No assumptions fulfilled for association. Abbreviations : CM, child marriage; FGM, female genital mutilation; Freq, frequency; PMC-E, Population Media Center-Ethiopia Table 7 . Intention to prevent FGM and CM, PMC-E evaluation study, target districts, May 2025 (N = 403: exposed = 205, non-exposed = 198) Item Response Non-exposed (n = 198) Exposed n = 205 Statistics FGM-related items Freq % Freq % Expect daughter will not be circumcised Disagree 20 10.4 22 11.0 χ² = 7.846, p = 0.097 Agree 172 89.6 177 89.0 Resist FGM under pressure Disagree 25 13.2 21 10.7 χ² = 8.337, p = 0.080 Agree 165 86.8 175 89.3 Would refuse FGM invitation/request Disagree 16 8.4 19 9.7 χ² = 10.902, p = 0.028 Agree 174 91.6 177 90.3 Have taken steps to prevent FGM Disagree 55 29.6 30 15.7 χ² = 15.663, p = 0.004 Agree 131 70.4 161 84.3 Intend to circumcise daughter in the future No 189 95.9 204 99.5 χ² = 9.417, p = 0.009 Yes 8 4.1 1 0.5 CM-related items Expect daughter will not marry before age 18 Disagree 22 11.2 8 3.9 χ² = 15.497, p = 0.004 Agree 175 88.8 197 96.1 Resist early marriage pressure Disagree 29 14.7 12 5.9 χ² = 11.719, p =0.008 Agree 168 85.3 193 94.1 Would reject early marriage proposals Disagree 13 6.6 4 2.0 χ² = 9.682, p = 0.046 Agree 184 93.4 201 98.0 Plan to delay daughter’s marriage Disagree 20 10.2 8 3.9 χ² = 9.799, p = 0.020 Agree 176 89.8 197 96.1 Intend to marry daughter off before age18 No 184 93.4 203 99.0 χ² = 9.141, p = 0.010 Yes 13 6.6 2 1.0 Note : "Not sure" responses were merged with "Agree" for pro-FGM/CM statements and with "Disagree" for anti-FGM/CM statements. Abbreviations : CM, child marriage; FGM, female genital mutilation; Freq, frequency; PMC-E, Population Media Center-Ethiopia Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. 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12:56:51","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":2343939,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-9117646/v1/24d891ac-4bad-43fb-b784-b157e6580ef3.pdf"},{"id":105447585,"identity":"dd9c89d7-9adf-4e67-9a32-d2b30b2581a9","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-03-26 07:30:06","extension":"docx","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"supplement","size":26691,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"Qualitativeinterviewguide.docx","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-9117646/v1/9fc53ababc0549b13b8d3378.docx"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Effectiveness of a multimedia campaign in shifting community knowledge, attitudes, social norms, and practices of FGM and CM in Ethiopia","fulltext":[{"header":"Background ","content":"\u003cp\u003eFemale genital mutilation (FGM) and child marriage (CM) are deeply rooted harmful practices (HPs) that persist despite legal prohibition and extensive advocacy efforts. FGM comprises all procedures involving the partial or complete excision of female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons [1]. Globally, 230 million girls and women worldwide have undergone FGM, with the largest share in Africa (144 million), followed by Asia (80 million) and the Middle East (6 million). Every year, an estimated 4 million girls and women are subjected to FGM; without accelerated action, an estimated 27 million more girls will undergo FGM by 2030 [1,2]. \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCM, defined as the formal marriage or informal union of a child under age 18, presents a similarly staggering global challenge. An estimated 640 million women alive today were married in childhood. Each year, 12 million adolescent girls are married before the age of 18, and, every 3 seconds, an adolescent girl gets married somewhere in the world [3,4].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese HPs are driven by a combination of deep-rooted social norms, cultural beliefs, and religious traditions. These factors foster a sense of cultural identity that makes the abandonment of the practice elusive despite decades of efforts at community, national, and international levels. Since its launch in 2008, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)–United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Joint Programme on the Elimination of Female Genital Mutilation has worked toward ending FGM by 2030, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, target 5.3. In collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), the program has provided prevention and protection services to nearly 7 million women as of February 2025. In addition, 48 million people have made public declarations to abandon the practice, and 220 million individuals were reached by mass media messaging on the issue [5].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, global crises such as conflict, drought, and the COVID-19 pandemic have increased vulnerability to HPs such as FGM and CM. These crises not only increase the risk but roll back the progress of interventions due to economic shock, school closure, and fund adjustment. Modeled estimates indicate that the risk factors for FGM and CM intensified beginning in 2020, threatening to offset previous declines in prevalence. In 2022 alone, an estimated 12 million girls became child brides [6].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite a gradual decline in prevalence, the UNFPA–UNICEF Joint Programme reported that as of 2023, FGM remained widely practiced in Ethiopia. With 25 million girls and women affected, the country bears the largest absolute burden of FGM in Eastern and Southern Africa [7]. Nevertheless, historical data indicate a clear downward trajectory; according to data from the Ethiopian Demographic and Health Surveys (EDHS, 2016), FGM prevalence fell from 80% in 2000 to 74% in 2005, and further to 65% in 2016. However, despite this national progress, prevalence remains high and exhibits significant regional variation. For instance, the 2016 EDHS shows that prevalence reached 99% in the Somali region, while it was as low as 23% in Tigray. The age at which FGM is performed also varies significantly by geography; in the Afar region, it typically occurs within the first 7 days after birth, whereas in parts of southern Ethiopia, the practice is often delayed until a girl reaches marriageable age [8].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCM presents a similarly complex challenge. Current data indicate that 4 in 10 married women in Ethiopia entered into marriage or union before their 18th birthday. Consequently, Ethiopia is home to 15 million child brides, including 6 million who were married before the age of 15 [9]. While EDHS data show that marriage by age 15 decreased from 13% in 2005 to 8% in 2011 and further to 6% in 2016, rates of marriage by age 18 remained relatively stable between 2011 and 2016, at 41% and 40%, respectively. Significant disparities exist between urban and rural areas, with the median age at first marriage ranging from just below 16 years among women in Amhara to 24 years among women in Addis Ababa [8]. The consequences of these early marriages—and the resulting early pregnancies—are profound, leading to severe physical, psychological, and social harm for young girls and women.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite numerous interventions aimed at eliminating these HPs, prevalence rates have remained largely unchanged. In response, the National Costed Roadmap to End FGM and CM 2020–2024 was implemented in alignment with Proclamation No. 414/2004 of the Criminal Code of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, which criminalizes the performance or procurement of FGM [10]. Beyond legal measures, scholars emphasize that community engagement, intersectoral collaboration, girls’ education and empowerment, and comprehensive social and behavior change (SBC) are the most transformative interventions for shifting community norms and ending these practices at the grassroots level [11-13].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMultimedia-based SBC interventions have proven effective in shifting public attitudes and behaviors toward social issues. Research on mass media’s role in behavior change highlights that carefully designed media content can significantly influence knowledge, perceptions, and social norms. Pooled evidence found that sustained community exposure to anti-FGM and anti-CM campaigns through multimedia intervention resulted in individual persuasion, norm diffusion and increases in service linkages [14]. Similarly, evaluations of Ethiopian radio programs revealed significant reductions in harmful gender norms in communities exposed to consistent media messaging. Further evidence confirms that integrating media interventions with community dialogue amplifies impact, particularly in regions where FGM and CM are deeply entrenched [15]. Previous SBC communication interventions in Ethiopia and other African countries have demonstrated measurable reductions in FGM and CM prevalence following such media-led behavior change campaigns [16,17].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom January 2020 through June 2025, Population Media Center-Ethiopia (PMC-E), in collaboration with UNFPA, implemented a multimedia intervention to address FGM and CM in targeted districts of central, south, and southwest Ethiopia, including Mareko, Dalocha, Esera, and Dasenech. Prior to the intervention, formative audience research (FAR) was conducted to identify key behavioral barriers, enabling factors, and audience preferences. Building on these findings, the program identified lack of awareness, interlinked social norms, religiously rooted HPs, and other socioeconomic factors as primary drivers requiring strategic intervention.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe PMC-E intervention comprised a radio talk show (RTS) designed to raise awareness and challenge gender norms, supplemented by advocacy workshops, capacity building for key influencers, distribution of promotional materials, and social and digital media engagement. To foster meaningful discussions on gender equality, audiences were segmented to include youth, religious and community leaders, health professionals, and local government officials. This evaluation aimed to assess the effect of PMC-E’s intervention in shifting knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding FGM and CM in targeted regions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eIntervention description\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe multimedia intervention was comprised of an RTS, spot messages, and promotional materials, complemented by capacity building, advocacy workshops, and radio listener groups (RLGs).\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRTS program\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eYalaleke Guzo\u003c/em\u003e (Unfinished Journey) utilized a magazine-style format combining community voices, expert advice, and dramatic storytelling. A total of 215 editions were produced and broadcast. Program elements included stakeholder interviews, book reviews, short plays, vox pop segments (capturing diverse community voices on specific issues), poems, and narration. Broadcast via the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC) and local stations such as Silte and Jinka FM, the 30-minute program reached more than 5 million individuals. Messaging emphasized the health and social consequences of FGM and CM, legal prohibitions and enforcement, and the importance of parental involvement in HP abandonment through a storytelling approach.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo catalyze the program and promote engagement within the target communities, 36 RLGs were established, each consisting of 10 members. These groups were equipped with multimedia tools to facilitate weekly collective listening. Members were expected to discuss the content, reach a consensus on the issues presented, and influence behavioral changes among other community members based on what they learned from the program about the consequence of HPs and the potential for legal prosecution.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCapacity building and advocacy workshops\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo augment the reach and impact of the RTS at the community level, capacity-building activities were provided to frontline health extension workers, social workers, and teachers. Beyond these sessions, community-level advocacy was conducted with clan and religious leaders, local government officials (specifically kebele and woreda women and social affairs leaders), elders, and former circumcizers. These workshops were critical for addressing the cultural frameworks and belief systems interlinked with HPs in the targeted woredas. A total of 1,800 participants were involved in these capacity-building and advocacy efforts over the course of the project.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBroadcast of radio and TV spot messages\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRadio and TV spot messages were critical for reinforcing key themes related to HPs. Thirty-three distinct spot messages were produced and broadcast across national and local media, reaching an estimated 2 million people.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSocial and digital media amplification\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo engage adolescents and youth who are increasingly active online, PMC utilized a multi-platform digital strategy encompassing Facebook, Telegram, YouTube, TikTok, and LinkedIn. PMC used monthly social media analysis to track message performance across all channels; data indicated that the intervention reached more than 3 million unique users and cultivated over 70,000 followers\u003cem\u003e.\u003c/em\u003e To extend this reach to those with limited internet access, PMC also deployed an interactive voice response (IVR) system in collaboration with the digital consulting firm Viamo. This telephony-based digital component enabled 2,600 individuals to directly access messages about HPs via mobile phone.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePromotional material distribution\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo reinforce the multimedia campaign, a diverse range of promotional materials—including booklets, flyers, posters, brochures, stickers, T-shirts, and billboard installations—were developed and distributed throughout the target areas. These materials featured key messages designed to inform and engage the public, while challenging prevailing community attitudes toward FGM and CM. The materials also incorporated human-interest stories of lived experiences to foster empathy and inspire collective action toward the abandonment of these practices.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eStudy setting\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe evaluation covered 4 woredas (districts): Mareko and Dalocha (Central Ethiopia), Esera (Southwest Ethiopia), and Dasenech (South Ethiopia). These areas were purposefully selected due to their high documented prevalence of FGM and CM, as well as their inclusion in the 5-year PMC-E multimedia intervention.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStudy design\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA post-only mixed-methods design was employed to evaluate the intervention’s impact. The quantitative component used a comparative cross-sectional approach to analyze differences in key indicators between individuals either exposed or non-exposed to PMC multimedia programming. Household exposure status was determined by asking screening questions about exposure to the RTS, spot messages, promotional materials, social media, audio push messages (IVR), or PMC-trained change agents over the preceding 5 years. Participants who reported no exposure to any of these channels were categorized as the non-exposed group. To complement and triangulate these quantitative data, qualitative interviews were conducted to provide a deeper understanding of shifts in knowledge, social norms, and behavior.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePopulation and sampling\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eQuantitative survey sampling\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study population included women of reproductive age (15–49 years) and heads of households with at least 1 daughter. The sample size for the comparative cross-sectional survey was calculated using a 2-population proportion formula, assuming a 16% expected change in exposure and\u0026nbsp;behavior [15], \u0026nbsp;with 95% confidence, 80% power, 5% margin of error, and a 10% non-response adjustment.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe final sample included 403 participants: 205 exposed and 198 non-exposed. If participants exposed at least one from the following PMC-E intervention (RTS, Radio and TV spot messages, advocacy workshop, capacity building, social media and promotional materials) during intervention period considered as exposed. \u0026nbsp;A multi-stage sampling approach was used. First, 2 kebeles (the smallest administrative units) were selected per woreda. Within these clusters, households were identified using systematically sampled until the target sample size was achieved.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eQualitative sampling\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSixteen qualitative activities were conducted, with 4 activities per woreda. These activities consisted of 8 key informant interviews/in-depth interviews (KIIs/IDIs) and 8 focus group discussions (FGDs), as illustrated in (Table 1). Each FGD was composed of 6–8 participants and was purposively selected to ensure diversity in gender, religion, residence, education, age, membership in women’s networks, exposure status to PMC-E multimedia interventions, and opinion leadership. This purposive multi-variation sampling ensured representativeness across key demographic and leadership strata, capturing both community-level and institutional perspectives.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eData collection tools and procedures\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA structured SurveyCTO-based questionnaire was deployed, translated into the local language (Amharic), and back-translated into English for analysis. The tool was adapted from existing literature and evidence, comprising 6 sections: socio-demographic information, knowledge, attitudes, media exposure, behavioral intentions, and practices. The qualitative guides were aligned with the same theoretical constructs, exploring predisposing, enabling, and reinforcing factors influencing FGM and CM. These factors included beliefs, decision-making processes, gender norms, social pressures, multisectoral responses, and experiences with law enforcement.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQuantitative data were collected digitally via SurveyCTO by 13 trained, gender-balanced, enumerators and 4 supervisors. Qualitative data (FGDs, KIIs, and IDIs) were collected by 8 experienced researchers fluent in the local languages\u0026nbsp;(Qualitative interview guide). Interviews and discussions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim to preserve the authenticity of the responses.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eData analysis and reporting\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQuantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. KAP were assessed using composite scales with validated items. Comparative assessments examined mean and proportion differences between exposed and non-exposed groups across knowledge, attitudes, behavioral intentions, and practices. Statistical significance was determined using chi-square tests and related measures of association. Practice was evaluated in 2 ways: cumulative prevalence among all participants and point prevalence in the 5 years following the PMC SBC multimedia intervention. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically using ATLAS.ti version 7.5.18 to identify contextual insights. Quantitative and qualitative results were triangulated to interpret changes in knowledge, attitudes, social norms, and behavioral practices. These findings informed policy and communication recommendations to promote community-level normative change.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific validity and rigor\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQuantitative data quality was ensured through pre-testing, expert content validation, and rigorous supervision. Internal consistency of composite scales was confirmed via Cronbach’s alpha (ranging from 0.72 to 0.87 across constructs such as knowledge and attitudes), confirming reliability. The SurveyCTO platform incorporated real-time validation, GPS verification, and logic checks. Enumerators received intensive training, and supervisors conducted frequent data audits. Triangulation across FGDs, KIIs, and quantitative surveys enhanced validity.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQualitative rigor was maintained through multiple strategies to ensure credibility, dependability, transferability, and confirmability. These strategies included prolonged engagement, peer debriefing, member checking, reflexivity, and thick description. Draft reports underwent internal review and verification by PMC-E staff.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOperational definitions\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFGM:\u003c/strong\u003e Self-reported partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCM:\u003c/strong\u003e Any formal or informal union or marriage of girls under age 18.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKnowledge of FGM and CM:\u003c/strong\u003e Assessed through a 13-item scale where responses were coded as True = 2, Don’t Know = 1, and False = 0 (with reverse coding for negative items). Scores were computed out of a maximum of 26; participants scoring above the mean were classified as having “good knowledge”, whereas those scoring below the mean were considered to have “poor knowledge.”\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAttitude toward FGM and CM:\u003c/strong\u003e Assessed through a 16-item scale, with responses ranging from 1 = Strongly Disagree to 5 = Strongly Agree (with reverse coding for negative items). Scores were computed out of a maximum of 80; participants scoring above the mean were categorized as having an “unfavorable attitude” toward FGM and CM, whereas those scoring below the mean were considered to have a “favorable attitude.”\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrevalence of FGM:\u003c/strong\u003e The proportion of women aged 15–49 who self-report having undergone FGM.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGirls’ prevalence of FGM:\u003c/strong\u003e The proportion of girls aged 0–14 who have undergone FGM as reported by parents or guardians.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrevalence of CM:\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp; The proportion of women aged 20–24 who were married before age 18.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eEthical Considerations\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn accordance with Helsinki declaration, this research is ethically cleared by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) of Jimma University (Ref: JUIH/IRB/0492/25). Informed consent and assent were obtained from all participants. Confidentiality was maintained through the use of pseudonyms and anonymized transcripts.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Results ","content":"\u003ch2\u003eSocio-demographic characteristics and household profile\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e403 individuals participated in the survey, with near-equal representation in the intervention-exposed (50.9%) and non-exposed (49.1%) groups. The majority of participants were female (73.7%), married (77.4%), and urban residents (86.4%). Educational attainment varied widely: 11.9% had no formal education, while 12.9% held a bachelor’s degree or higher. The predominant religious affiliations were Orthodox Christianity (48.1%) and Islam (32.8%). Respondents’ primary occupations included housewife (34.2%), private business operator (24.6%), or government employee (21.8%). Over half of households (56.1%) were categorized as poor by wealth index, and the average household size was 5.88 members. Community engagement was high, with 92.6% of respondents affiliated with traditional support groups such as Idir (Table 2). Qualitative participants ranged in age from 21 to 62 years, and FGDs comprised 5–8 individuals per session.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"_Toc200360367\"\u003eSocio-behavioral shifts by exposure to the PMC-E media intervention\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eKnowledge about FGM and CM\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall knowledge about FGM and CM was significantly higher among the exposed group (93.2%) compared to the non-exposed group (84.6%; p \u0026lt; 0.001), representing an 8.6 percentage point difference. Significant differences were also observed across several specific knowledge items between exposed and non-exposed groups. The exposed group demonstrated better understanding of the mental health effects of FGM, such as anxiety and depression (96.1% vs. 83.8%; mean = 3.02, p \u0026lt; 0.001), were more likely to reject the myth linking FGM to chastity or moral character (mean = 3.05, p \u0026lt; 0.001), and better understood that FGM causes physical harm (p = 0.049).\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRegarding CM, the exposed group demonstrated better awareness of the economic benefits of delaying marriage (86.8% vs. 77.3%; mean = 3.13, p = 0.009), understood that CM increases maternal mortality (98.4% vs. 90.5%. p \u0026lt; 0.0001), and recognized that CM increases spousal abuse (95.1% vs. 87.4%, p = 0.005) (Table 3).\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe qualitative findings were consistent with the survey results. FGD and IDI participants reported that advocacy through relatable body analogies helped the community better understand the severity of FGM.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I gave awareness… with example about losing of one finger from five. As your four fingers do no work appropriately, cutting organ like as fingers it doesn’t work task. Moreover, I also use sensory body to give analogy of harm. For example, there are five sense organs. From five sense organs, as eye helps to see, she is losing one of reproductive organs… Therefore, when removed that organ it left with scar.\" (IDI, Mareko, Advocate)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eParticipants also noted that youth had gained awareness of legal protection through various channels and have started to resist HPs.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“I joked with my daughter about circumcising her. She said, ‘I will call the police, and you’ll be arrested.’ That’s how much awareness they have from school.” \u0026nbsp;(FGD, Mareko, P2)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, misconceptions about medical, sociocultural, and religious justifications for FGM persisted among older generations. Participants reported that older community members believe that FGM ensures marriageability and controls sexual desire. \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"If she is not circumcised, no man will marry her. They say she is not clean, she is rebellious. That’s why even educated families still do it.\" (IDI, RLG)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"People say if not circumcised, she will be over-stimulated, she won’t control herself, she will break household items. These beliefs are stronger than science here.\" (Esera Men’s FGD, P3)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome elders and parents associate FGM with ensuring community acceptance and honor.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“First an uncircumcised woman loses her honor; she is ostracized from society… she cannot find a husband. That is why she is circumcised.” (KII, Dasenech, FGM Practitioner\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimilarly, others viewed FGM as deeply intertwined with community concepts of bodily cleanliness and modesty.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"They say the girl has a bad smell if not circumcised. They say she’s not pure. These are myths, but they are very powerful in the community.\" (IDI, Survivor)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite several awareness-raising campaigns via different channels, some participants framed FGM as a religious obligation.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“There is still attitude that this is Sunnah. There are opinions of scholars who say it should be done, although others say it’s not required.” (FGD, Mareko, P6)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAttitudes towards FGM and CM\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eFGM\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe exposed group demonstrated significantly greater rejection of sociocultural justifications for FGM compared to the non-exposed group. Exposed participants were less likely to agree with common pro-FGM beliefs, including that FGM ensures virginity (1% vs. 4%, χ² = 7.92, p = 0.005) or improves marriage prospects (1.5% vs. 5%, χ² = 4.51, p = 0.034). The exposed group also showed higher recognition of FGM’s harms: 83.4% acknowledged its health risks (vs. 72.2%, χ² = 7.33, p = 0.007), 83.9% recognized the psychological trauma it causes (vs. 68.2%, χ² = 11.42, p \u0026lt; 0.001), and 92.7% rejected the notion that condemning FGM’s harms is “weak” (vs. 79.8%, χ² = 13.70, p \u0026lt; 0.001). The largest between-group differences were observed for two beliefs: agreement that “FGM avoids family shame” was significantly lower in the exposed group (0.5% vs. 5.1%, p = 0.005), while agreement that “FGM causes psychological trauma and anxiety” was significantly higher (83.9% vs. 68.2%, p \u0026lt; 0.001). However, there were no significant differences between groups regarding religious justifications for FGM, perceptions of fairness around marriage benefits, or beliefs about sexual autonomy (Table 4).\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQualitative findings also confirmed that the religious and deep-rooted myths underlying FGM remain persistent in the community. FGD and IDI participants noted that uncut girls face rejection, insults, and stigma, even from their own families. Some participants also remarked on perceived benefits of FGM in shaping girls’ sexual discipline and marriageability.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“Many times, people insult who did not undergo FGM… they insult by saying you eat the money of the child… by saying your child has waste, it is not disposed.”\u003cbr\u003e\u0026nbsp;(IDI, Esara, CM Survivor's Father)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"People say if not circumcised, she will be over-stimulated, she won’t control herself, she will break household items. These beliefs are stronger than science here.\" (FGD, P3)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"If she is not circumcised, no man will marry her. They say she is not clean; she is rebellious. That’s why even educated families still do it.\" (IDI, RLG)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eCM\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall, 83.4% of the exposed group demonstrated an unfavorable attitude toward CM, significantly higher than 78.1% in the non-exposed group (χ² = 11.25, p \u0026lt; 0.001). Significant differences were also observed across multiple key statements. Only 2.4% of the exposed group agreed that early marriage helps girls settle down, compared to 13.6% of the non-exposed group (χ² = 28.146, p \u0026lt; 0.001). Similarly, only 8.8% of the exposed group agreed that early marriage protects girls from dishonor, versus 13.6% in the non-exposed group (χ² = 24.962, p \u0026lt; 0.001). Regarding perceptions of the impact of early marriage on education, 90.7% of the exposed group disagreed that marriage before age 18 ends a girl’s schooling, compared to 80.8% of the non-exposed group (χ² = 9.606, p = 0.048), suggesting stronger recognition of CM’s consequences for girls’ education. The exposed group also more strongly rejected economic, social, and autonomy-based justifications for CM and was more likely to support delaying marriage as a path to girls' independence (Table\u0026nbsp;5).\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePractice and intention regarding FGM and CM\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePractice of FGM and CM\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe practice of FGM and CM was assessed both before and after project implementation. 855 girls/daughters were identified within the sampled households. Of these, 243 (28.4%) had ever been married, of which only 12 were married before the age of 18, indicating a CM prevalence of 4.9%. The overall prevalence of FGM among participants was 262 (32.7%), of which almost all (99.6%) had undergone the practice before the age of 18. However, no statistically significant differences in FGM or CM were observed between exposed and non-exposed groups (Table 6).\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQualitative findings revealed shifting practices of FGM and CM in the community, with some changes appearing positive and genuine, and others remaining superficial or symbolic. Participants described intergenerational dialogue in which increased awareness led families to spare younger generations from HPs.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I was circumcised. And my older sisters were circumcised. But due to awareness… my younger sister has not be circumcised and also my children too.\" (IDI, Mareko, Advocate)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome participants noted that social sanctions are diminishing the practice. Community groups such as Idir have begun establishing regulations and punishments for those who perform FGM. However, enforcement of these locally established rules remains inconsistent.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“Our idir decided 10,000 ETB as punishment. Anyone who performs FGM will be excluded from social participation.” (FGD, Mareko, P6)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the same time, participants reported that practices have shifted towards secrecy rather than abandonment. Qualitative data indicate that FGM is increasingly performed in secret in response to legal prohibitions, government penalties, and interventions such as PMC’s multimedia campaigns and public dialogues. Improved case reporting and law enforcement appear to have driven the practice underground rather than eliminating it.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"The community leaders send their daughters to rural areas where nobody checks. After a month, they return. It’s all done secretly now.\"(Esera FGD, Male Participant)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"They do the cultural part, dancing, feeding, but the cutting happens later, somewhere else. The girl disappears for a few days and returns silently.\" (IDI, RLG Member)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eReported intentions for FGM and CM\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study revealed clear differences in intentions regarding FGM and CM between exposed and non-exposed groups. Regarding FGM, only 0.5% of the exposed group were uncertain or willing to circumcise their daughters, compared to 4.1% in the non-exposed group (χ² = 9.42, p = 0.009). Similarly, only 1% of the exposed group would consider marrying off their daughters before age 18, compared to 6.6% in the non-exposed group (χ² = 9.14, p = 0.010).\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe exposed group also reported significantly higher rates of taking preventive action against FGM (84.3% vs 70.4%; χ² = 15.66, p = 0.004) and stronger commitment to resist early marriage pressure (94.1% vs 85.3%; χ² = 11.72, p = 0.008) (Table 7).\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eInstitutional support, legal enforcement, and challenges\u003c/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to qualitative findings, community-based structures such as Idir groups and kebele leadership are beginning to support legal enforcement against FGM and CM, though their involvement remains limited. Participants noted that policy responses are increasingly seen as critical, with swift action credited for preventing CM and rescuing at-risk girls.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“I told the police… they arrested him for 3 days… now police keep them… now thanks to God, it is peace.” (IDI, Esara, CM Survivor's Father)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, several challenges hinder the institutionalization and effective legal enforcement of anti-FGM and anti-CM efforts:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eCommunity elders intervening in legal processes.\u003c/em\u003e Customary dispute resolution systems often undermine formal legal enforcement. Elders often remove cases from formal legal systems, resolving them according to traditional practices instead.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"There are elder (hafa shumagile) people… they ask court to hand over case to see at community level… based on their custom.\" (IDI, Mareko, Advocate)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eVictims claiming consent to avoid stigma\u003c/em\u003e. Girls often claim consent to marriage even when coerced, attempting to preserve their social standing and avoid further stigma.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"She may say ‘my life is once damaged’ and I don’t want enter issue’. She tries to accept marriage.\" (IDI, Mareko, Advocate)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Discussion ","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe primary objective of this evaluation was to assess the effectiveness of a multimedia SBC intervention in increasing awareness and shifting attitudes, norms, and practices related to FGM and CM. The study compared areas where PMC programming had been implemented to areas that did not receive the intervention. Consistent with established findings, the analysis showed statistically significant differences in knowledge and attitudes toward FGM and CM between exposed and non-exposed participants.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eParticipants exposed to the multimedia SBC intervention demonstrated significantly higher knowledge levels regarding FGM and CM, with 93.4% scoring high compared to 84.6% in the non-exposed group (p \u0026lt; 0.001). This difference reflects an 8.6 percentage point improvement attributable to targeted SBC messaging. These findings are consistent with existing evidence. For instance, a study conducted in Ethiopia\u0026rsquo;s Oromia region found that individuals with access to more than 2 sources of information on FGM were 3 times more likely to possess adequate knowledge compared to those with 1 or no source [18]. Such results underscore the importance of diversified and sustained communication strategies in enhancing public awareness and shifting social norms.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeyond HPs, exposure to health messaging through SBC interventions has been shown to significantly increase knowledge in other health domains. An Indian study found that participants exposed to SBC interventions were twice as likely to have better knowledge about menstrual health and hygiene [19]. Furthermore, findings from a UNICEF evaluation in Ethiopia reaffirm the pivotal role of media engagement, particularly RTS programs, in raising awareness of and shifting attitudes toward FGM and CM [15].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn contrast, studies conducted in rural communities of Enugu State, Nigeria, revealed that mass media engagement was ineffective in raising awareness and shifting behaviors related to FGM and CM [20]. This discrepancy might be explained by the study\u0026rsquo;s selection of remote rural sites with limited network and electricity access, where deeply rooted cultural values may have contributed to media ineffectiveness. Moreover, the Nigerian study lacked baseline data, audience segmentation research, and a comparison group, making it difficult to determine whether infrastructural constraints limited the intervention\u0026apos;s impact. The UNICEF evaluation shows that multimedia interventions succeed when they reach engaged audiences through multiple channels strategically chosen based on where the target audience actually obtains their information [15]. This consideration is essential for optimizing reach, resonance, and behavioral impact. In alignment with this approach, PMC consistently designs its multimedia SBC interventions based on FAR. This strategy is evident in the current post-project evaluation, which confirms the multimedia intervention\u0026rsquo;s success in shifting target audiences\u0026rsquo; knowledge and attitudes toward FGM and CM.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnti-FGM attitudes were higher among the exposed group (90.2%) compared to the non‑exposed group (81.4%), with a 6.01 percentage point difference attributable to the intervention (p = 0.014). Similarly, rejection of CM was greater among exposed participants (83.4%) than non‑exposed participants (78.1%), showing an 11.25 percentage difference (p \u0026lt; 0.001). This finding represents a statistically significant positive impact of the intervention.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese findings align with studies from northern Nigeria, which found that storytelling and multimedia entertainment-education are critical approaches for shifting community attitudes toward early marriage [21]. According to UNICEF\u0026apos;s evaluation of RTS effectiveness, media engagement remains relevant for shifting attitudes toward FGM and CM [15]. PMC and UNICEF\u0026apos;s collaborative experience with other health issues further demonstrates the effectiveness of multimedia interventions; for example, their work on under-5 diarrheal disease in Ethiopia showed significant impact in shifting norms [22]. \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, a study in Bangladesh using an edutainment approach did not show significant changes in community attitudes toward FGM and CM, although the study confirmed that behavioral experiments were less prone to social desirability bias in assessing sensitive topics [23]. The possible reason for the difference is that the investigators in Bangladesh focused on evaluating a single media intervention\u0026mdash;a television series designed to promote positive role models\u0026mdash;making it difficult to determine attribution in the presence of multiple media sources and variable exposure patterns.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the present study, while quantitative findings demonstrated positive shifts in knowledge and attitudes toward FGM and CM, qualitative findings uncovered persistent myths and misconceptions deeply rooted in intergenerational and sociocultural belief systems. Even though participants reported that most of the community is aware of FGM and CM, FGM is still associated with notions of marriageability, bodily cleanliness, and religious obligation\u0026mdash;often referred to as \u0026ldquo;Sunna\u0026rdquo; within Muslim communities. This justification is consistent with findings from studies conducted in Spain and the United Kingdom, where FGM was reported to be highly prevalent [24]. Similarly, in Ethiopia\u0026rsquo;s Afar and Somali regions, hygienic-esthetic and religious-spiritual factors were identified as major reasons for the continuation of the practice [25].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSurprisingly, across all study sites, a common belief held that FGM serves to calm girls and suppress perceived excessive sexual desire, reflecting entrenched sociocultural narratives that continue to justify the practice. Recognizing these narratives, KII participants emphasized the critical need for sustained community engagement strategies complemented by targeted multimedia awareness interventions to effectively challenge and transform harmful social norms.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRegarding CM, the survey results align with qualitative findings. More than three-fourth of participants agreed with some CM justifications, such as the claims that early marriage leads to pregnancy-related complications and ends schooling, or that delaying marriage helps achieve independence. However, the survey results contradicted qualitative findings on justifications related to family honor, the girl\u0026rsquo;s honor, and community acceptance. A majority of survey respondents disagreed with sociocultural and family honor justifications. This contradiction may be due to social desirability bias. Furthermore, qualitative studies often involve longer rapport-building, enabling more honest disclosure of taboo or stigmatized beliefs [26].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the current study, the overall prevalence of FGM was 262/855 (32.7%), of which almost all (99.6%) had undergone the practice before the age of 18. Of the total women interviewed, 12 were married before the age of 18, indicating a CM prevalence of 4.9%. However, no significant differences in FGM and CM practice were observed between exposed and non-exposed groups (p = 0.38 and p = 0.55, respectively). The prevalence of FGM in this study was much lower than in other studies conducted in Ethiopia: EDHS 2016 reported 65% nationally, with nearly three-quarters (72%) in Afar region and 85% in Somali region having undergone FGM, and the pooled African prevalence was 56.4% [8,27,28]. Similarly, the reported practice of CM in this research is lower than in other Ethiopian studies: 33.7% in Harari region, 34.7% in Amhara region, and a pooled prevalence of 56.34% [29-31]. These differences could be due to the targeted behavioral intervention in the last 5 years, variations in when and where studies were conducted, and sociocultural differences across study sites.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite the notable decline in overall FGM prevalence, qualitative findings underscore the persistence of underground practices that evade legal accountability. Moreover, recent trends indicate a strategic shift in the timing and location of the procedure, with some communities increasingly conducting FGM during school holidays or when girls are temporarily out of school, thereby minimizing the risk of detection and legal repercussions.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Conclusion ","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe multimedia SBC intervention effectively increased awareness and shifted attitudes toward FGM and CM, through no significant differences in practice were observed between exposed and non-exposed groups. The multimedia intervention was found to be critical in shifting intentions to commit HPs and in supporting legal enforcement efforts. However, deeply rooted social norms related to misconceptions and myths about FGM and CM remained persistent, sustaining the practices. Moreover, entrenched cultural beliefs, religious misinterpretations, and traditional legal arbitration by elders continue to impede sustainable abandonment of FGM and CM. The role of male figures, teachers, religious leaders, and multi-sector stakeholders remains under-leveraged. Scaling community dialogues to involve all layers of the community, empowering youth, facilitating intergenerational dialogue, engaging men, empowering girls, coordinating stakeholders, and strengthening legal enforcement are critical for shifting social norms and accelerating the abandonment of FGM and CM in Ethiopia.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Abbreviations ","content":"\u003cp\u003eCM: Child Marriage\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEBC: Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEDHS: Ethiopia Demographic Health Survey\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFAR: Formative Audience Research\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFGD: Focus Group Discussion\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFGM: Female Genital Mutilation\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHDA: Health Development Army\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHEW: Health Extension Worker\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHF: Health Facility\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHH: Household\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHP: Harmful Practice\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIDI: In-Depth Interview\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIRB: Institutional Review Board\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIVR: Interactive Voice Response\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKAP: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKII: Key Informant Interview\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePMC: Population Media Center\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePMC-E: Population Media Center-Ethiopia\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRLG: Radio Listener Group\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRTS: Radio Talk Show\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSBC: Social and Behavior Change\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSD: Standard Deviation\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSDG: Sustainable Development Goal\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUNFPA: United Nations Population Fund\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUNICEF: United Nations Children\u0026rsquo;s Fund\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWDA: Women\u0026rsquo;s Development Army\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWHO: World Health Organization\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWWSA: Woreda Women and Social Affairs Office\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations ","content":"\u003ch2\u003eEthics approval and consent to participate\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study was reviewed and ethically approved by the Institute of Health, Jimma University, with reference number JUIH/IRB/0492/25. Informed consent was obtained from every respondent. Data were collected in a private manner. Confidentiality of the data was maintained through the use of pseudonyms during interviews, and all identifiers were removed from transcriptions and reporting.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eConsent for publication\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll participants provided consent for publication of anonymized data and findings delivered from this study.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAvailability of data and materials\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe data sets generated and/or analyzed during the current study are available from PMC-E upon reasonable request.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCompeting interests\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors declare they have no competing interests.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFunding\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis research was financially supported by PMC through a grant provided by UNFPA. The study was implemented by an independent consulting firm contracted for data collection and analysis.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAuthors\u0026rsquo; contributions\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKM: Conceptualization, methodology, reviewing and editing, supervision of data collection, quality assurance, and manuscript writing. ME: Conceptualization, methodology, reviewing and editing, and quality control. YK: Conceptualization, data curation, formal analysis, investigation, methodology, project administration, resources, software, visualization, and writing\u0026mdash;original draft. KA: Reviewing, project administration, and management. SZ: Reviewing, project administration, and supervision. AM: Reviewing the manuscript, editing, and quality assurance. AA: support in revising the manuscript, support in conceptualization of research idea ST: Supporting manuscript writing, report editing, and reviewing. BF: Reviewing and editing. BJ: Reviewing and editing. HE: Reviewing, methodology, and supervision. AHR: Conceptualization, methodology, reviewing, finalizing, and quality control.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAcknowledgements\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe acknowledge the study participants, data collectors, and supervisors for their active participation in the study. We express our sincere gratitude to UNFPA for providing financial support throughout the implementation of this project. We also acknowledge the government officials in the study sites for their cooperation and provision of necessary information during the study.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUNICEF. International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation 2025. https://www.unicef.org/documents/international-day-zero-tolerance-female-genital-mutilation-2025. Accessed 4 March 2026\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUNFPA, UNICEF. Strengthening alliances and building movements to end female genital mutilation. 2025. https://www.unfpa.org/press/strengthening-alliances-and-building-movements-end-female-genital-mutilation. Accessed 13 October 2025.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSevin\u0026ccedil; S, Kutlu \u0026Ouml;. Early marriage from a health perspective: Risks and intervention strategies. In: Uddin E. Social, political, and health implications of early marriage. IGI Global Scientific Publishing; 2024; p. 213\u0026ndash;36\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUNFPA, UNICEF. Celebrating the fifth anniversary of the UNFPA\u0026ndash;-UNICEF Global Programme to End Child Marriage in East and Southern Africa. 2022. https://esaro.unfpa.org/sites/default/files/pub-pdf/gpecm_5th_anniversary_report_final.pdf. Accessed 13 October 2025.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUNFPA, UNICEF. Delivering the global promise: End FGM by 2030. 2025. https://www.unicef.org/media/119261/file/Delivering-the-Global-Promise.pdf. 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Drivers, experiences and opportunities for social norm change. London: Gender and Adolescence: Global Evidence. 2022. https://gage.odi.org/exploring-the-diversity-of-fgm-c-practices-in-ethiopia-drivers-experiences-and-opportunities-for-social-norm-change-1/. Accessed 4 March 2026.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCronin C. Opportunities for change: Exploring the role of social norms and ideation in the persistence and abandonment of female genital mutilation in Ethiopia. Doctoral Dissertation. 2022. http://jhir.library.jhu.edu/handle/1774.2/68315. Accessed 4 March 2026.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePeterman A. Edutainment to prevent violence against women and children. Available at SSRN 4755968. 2024 Sep 30. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKern J, Shikur Z, Terefa FG, Van Westering J, Sarma R, Chall A. Transforming Harmful Gender Norms Through Social and Behavior Change Programming\u0026ndash;Findings From the \u0026ldquo;End Child Marriage\u0026rdquo; Program Evaluation in Ethiopia. Sustainable development. 2025;23:3.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiop NJ, Askew I. The effectiveness of a community‐based education program on abandoning female genital mutilation/cutting in Senegal. Stud Fam Plann. 2009;40(4):307\u0026ndash;18. DOI: 10.1111/j.1728-4465.2009.00213.x\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBoyle EH, Songora F, Foss G. International discourse and local politics: Anti-female-genital-cutting laws in Egypt, Tanzania, and the United States. Soc Probl. 2001;48(4):524\u0026ndash;44. DOI: 10.1525/sp.2001.48.4.524.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBelachew G. Knowledge, attitude and practice of female genital mutilation and associated factors among women of child bearing age in Holeta Town, Oromia Region, Ethiopia, 2022. Submitted as a Master\u0026apos;s thesis to the Ambo University College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Public Health. 2022. [Not accessible online as of 4 March 2026.]\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRamaiya A, Malhotra A, Cronin C, Stevens S, Kostizak K, Sharma A, et al. How does a social and behavioral change communication intervention predict menstrual health and hygiene management: A cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health. 2019 Aug 2;19(1). DOI:10.1186/s12889-019-7359-z.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWogu JO, Amonyeze C, Babatola Folorunsho RO, Aloh HE. An evaluation of the impact of media campaign against female genital mutilation (FGM) in the rural communities of Enugu State, Nigeria. Glob J Health Sci. 2019 Nov 10;11(14):37. DOI:10.5539/gjhs.v11n14p37.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBlessing CON, Udeh K, Tsegyu S, Ogwu AC, Tiamiyu KA, Wogu JO, et al. Impact of visual multimedia intervention on perception, knowledge and intention towards child marriage among children in Northern Nigeria. J Asian Afr Stud. 2025;60(5):2803\u0026ndash;16. DOI: 10.1177/00219096231224673.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNegussie A, Lejore E, Hailemariam A, Tefera B, Mazengia EM, Dejene T, et al. BabyWASH and diarrhea prevention practices following multimedia educational intervention in hard-to-reach areas of the Afar and Somali regions of Ethiopia: a mixed-method endline evaluation. BMC Public Health. 2023 Dec 1;23(1). DOI:10.1186/s12889-023-16887-y.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIslam MN, Rabbani A, Talukder A, Siddiqua RR, Nujhat S, Rahman M, et al. Edutainment and the prevention of under-age marriages: The evaluation of a television series designed to promote positive role models in Bangladesh. J Dev Effect. 2024;16(2):159\u0026ndash;86. DOI: 10.1080/19439342.2023.2195851.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGonz\u0026aacute;lez-Timoneda A, S\u0026aacute;nchez AC, Gonz\u0026aacute;lez-Timoneda M, Ros VR. Cultural beliefs, perceptions, and experiences on female genital mutilation among women and men: A qualitative analysis. J Interpers Violence. 2022;37(17\u0026ndash;18):NP15504\u0026ndash;31. DOI: 10.1177/08862605211015257.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePresler-Marshall E, Jones N, Endale K, Woldehanna T, Yadete W, Abdiselam A. \u0026ldquo;People will talk about her if she is not circumcised\u0026rdquo;: Exploring the patterning, drivers and gender norms around female genital mutilation in Ethiopia\u0026rsquo;s Somali region. Soc Sci Med. 2024 Mar 1;345. DOI:10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116664.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrannen J. Combining qualitative and quantitative approaches: An overview. In Brannen, J, editor. Mixing methods: Qualitative and quantitative research. London: Routledge; 1992 [2017 ebook]. p. 3\u0026ndash;37.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAyenew AA, Mol BW, Bradford B, Abeje G. Prevalence of female genital mutilation and associated factors among women and girls in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Syst Rev. 2024;13(1):26. DOI: 10.1186/s13643-023-02428-6.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEndale K, Presler-Marshall E, Yadete W, Jones N, Gebeyehu Y, Abdiselam A, et al. FGM and child marriage in Ethiopia\u0026rsquo;s Afar and Somali regions: Patterns, risks and priority entry points for change. 2025. London: Gender and Adolescence: Global Evidence. https://gage.odi.org/fgm-and-child-marriage-in-ethiopia-s-afar-and-somali-regions-patterns-risks-and-priority-entry-points-for-change/. Accessed 4 March 2026.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLami M, Negash A, Eyeberu A, Birhanu A, Debella A, Getachew T, et al. Prevalence of child marriage and associated factors among reproductive age women in Harari regional state, eastern Ethiopia, 2022: a community-based study. BMC Women\u0026rsquo;s Health. 2023;23(1):267. DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02409-w.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAbera M, Nega A, Tefera Y, Gelagay AA. Early marriage and women\u0026rsquo;s empowerment: The case of child-brides in Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia. BMC Int Health Hum Rights. 2020;20(1):30. DOI: 10.1186/s12914-020-00249-5.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGebeyehu NA, Gesese MM, Tegegne KD, Kebede YS, Kassie GA, Mengstie MA, et al. Early marriage and its associated factors among women in Ethiopia: Systematic reviews and meta-analysis. PLoS One. 2023;18(11):e0292625. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292625. eCollection 2023.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"},{"header":"Tables","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 1\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e. Sampling distribution of FGDs/KIIs/IDIs for the FGM-CM study, May 2025, PMC-E\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15.5963%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDistricts\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 35.7798%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFGDs\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 40.367%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIDIs/KIIs\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8.25688%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTotal\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15.5963%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMareko\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 35.7798%;\"\u003e\n \u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eFemale residents (semi-urban) = 1\u0026nbsp;\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eCommunity leaders (town) = 1\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 40.367%;\"\u003e\n \u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eAdvocate against FGM/CM (town) = 1\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eWWSA representative = 1\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8.25688%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15.5963%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDalocha\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 35.7798%;\"\u003e\n \u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eMale residents (town) = 1\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eWoreda multisector leaders = 1\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 40.367%;\"\u003e\n \u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eAdvocate against CM/FGM (rural) = 1\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eYouth RLG change agent = 1\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8.25688%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15.5963%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEsera\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 35.7798%;\"\u003e\n \u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eMale residents (semi-urban) = 1\u0026nbsp;\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eWoreda multisector leaders = 1\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 40.367%;\"\u003e\n \u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eVictims of CM with trauma (town) = 1\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eFemale educated survivor of CM = 1\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8.25688%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15.5963%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDasenech\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 35.7798%;\"\u003e\n \u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eCommunity leaders = 1\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eFemale residents (urban) = 1\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 40.367%;\"\u003e\n \u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eFGM practitioner = 1\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eYouth RLG change agent = 1\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8.25688%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15.5963%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 35.7798%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 40.367%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8.25688%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"4\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 100%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAbbreviations: CM, child marriage; FGD, focus group discussion; FGM, female genital mutilation; IDI, in-depth interview; KII, key informant interview; PMC-E, Population Media Center-Ethiopia; RLG, radio listener group; WWSA, Woreda Women and Social Affairs Office\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 2\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e. Socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents and household profile, PMC-E evaluation study, target districts, May 2025 (N = 403: exposed = 205, non-exposed = 198)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVariables\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExposed (n = 205)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNon-exposed (n = 198)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTotal (N = 403)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStatistics\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDistrict\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDasenech (South Omo)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e55 (26.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e48 (24.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e103 (25.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"4\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.04, p = 0.84\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMareko Special Woreda\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e50 (24.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e50 (25.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100 (24.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEssera (Dawro Zone)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e50 (24.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e50 (25.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100 (24.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDalucha (Silte Zone)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e50 (24.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e50 (25.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100 (24.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResidence/Kebele\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eUrban\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e178 (86.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e170 (85.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e348 (86.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.36, p = 0.55\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSemi-urban town\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e27 (13.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e28 (14.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e55 (13.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSex\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFemale\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e149 (72.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e145 (73.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e294 (72.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.01, p = 0.92\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMale\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e53 (25.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e52 (26.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e105 (26.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMarital status\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMarried\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e156 (76.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e153 (77.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e309 (76.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"4\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.09, p = 0.99\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSingle\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25 (12.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24 (12.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e49 (12.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWidowed\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10 (4.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10 (5.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20 (5.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDivorced\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11 (5.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11 (5.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e22 (5.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReligion\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOrthodox\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97 (47.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e95 (48.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e192 (47.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"4\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.04, p = 0.99\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMuslim\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e66 (32.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e65 (32.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e131 (32.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eProtestant\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e38 (18.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e37 (18.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e75 (18.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOther (Traditional)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (0.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0 (0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (0.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEducation\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo formal education\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24 (11.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23 (11.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e47 (11.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"7\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.03, p = 1.00\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAble to read/write\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26 (12.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25 (12.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e51 (12.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePrimary (1\u0026ndash;8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e54 (26.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e52 (26.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e106 (26.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSecondary (9\u0026ndash;12)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e41 (20.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e40 (20.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e81 (20.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTertiary (certificate \u0026gt;12)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15 (7.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14 (7.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e29 (7.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTertiary (college diploma)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17 (8.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17 (8.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34 (8.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTertiary (bachelor\u0026rsquo;s degree or higher)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26 (12.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25 (12.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e51 (12.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOccupation\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHousewife\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e69 (33.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e68 (34.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e137 (34.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"7\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.02, p = 0.99\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMerchant/private business\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e50 (24.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e48 (24.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e98 (24.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGovernment employee\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e44 (21.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e43 (21.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e87 (21.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eStudent\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15 (7.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15 (7.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30 (7.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFarmer\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14 (6.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14 (7.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e28 (6.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDaily laborer\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (2.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4 (2.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9 (2.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOther\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (2.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4 (2.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9 (2.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpouse/HH head education\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo formal education\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20 (9.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20 (10.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e40 (9.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"8\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.01, p = 1.00\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAble to read/write\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e22 (10.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e22 (11.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e44 (10.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePrimary (1\u0026ndash;8)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e39 (19.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e38 (19.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e77 (19.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSecondary (9\u0026ndash;12)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33 (16.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e32 (16.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e65 (16.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTertiary (certificate \u0026gt;12)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13 (6.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12 (6.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25 (6.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTertiary (college diploma)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23 (11.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e22 (11.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e45 (11.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTertiary (bachelor\u0026rsquo;s degree or higher)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e31 (15.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30 (15.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e61 (15.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNot applicable\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14 (6.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14 (7.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e28 (6.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpouse/HH head occupation\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMerchant/private business\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e54 (26.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e53 (26.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e107 (26.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"7\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.01, p = 0.99\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGovernment employee\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e53 (25.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e52 (26.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e105 (26.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFarmer\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e35 (17.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34 (17.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e69 (17.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHousewife\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e27 (13.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26 (13.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e53 (13.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDaily laborer\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6 (2.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6 (3.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12 (3.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOther\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (2.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4 (2.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9 (2.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNot applicable\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14 (6.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14 (7.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e28 (6.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWealth Index\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePoor\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e113 (55.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e111 (56.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e224 (55.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"3\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.05, p = 0.98\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMedium\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46 (22.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e45 (22.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e91 (22.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRich\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e43 (21.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e42 (21.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e85 (21.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHH Profile (Mean \u0026plusmn; SD)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHousehold size\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.69 \u0026plusmn; 1.74\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.91 \u0026plusmn; 1.93\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.88 \u0026plusmn; 1.80\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMale children\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.13 \u0026plusmn; 1.21\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.15 \u0026plusmn; 1.49\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.14 \u0026plusmn; 1.44\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFemale children\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.25 \u0026plusmn; 1.09\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.23 \u0026plusmn; 1.19\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.24 \u0026plusmn; 1.15\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTeenage girls (10\u0026ndash;17 years)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.95 \u0026plusmn; 0.73\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.93 \u0026plusmn; 0.66\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.94 \u0026plusmn; 0.68\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMembership in social groups\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIdir\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e187 (91.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e183 (92.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e370 (91.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.21, p = 0.65\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSavings and loan group\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e137 (66.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e134 (67.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e271 (67.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.04, p = 0.84\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWDA/HDA\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e49 (23.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e48 (24.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97 (24.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.01, p = 0.93\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWomen\u0026rsquo;s income group\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e40 (19.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e39 (19.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e79 (19.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.00, p = 0.96\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSenbetie/mahber/debo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33 (16.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e32 (16.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e65 (16.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.00, p = 0.99\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWomen\u0026rsquo;s militia group\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e22 (10.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e22 (11.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e44 (10.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.01, p = 0.91\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eModel family\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18 (8.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18 (9.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e36 (8.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.01, p = 0.92\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAdolescent group\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8 (3.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7 (3.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15 (3.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.04, p = 0.84\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"5\" valign=\"top\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAbbreviations: HDA, Health Development Army; HH, household; SD, standard deviation; WDA, Women\u0026apos;s Development Army\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 3\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e. Knowledge about FGM and CM, PMC-E evaluation study, target districts, May 2025 (N = 403: exposed = 205, non-exposed = 198)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"100%\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 46px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKnowledge variable about FGM and CM\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExposed (n = 205)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNon-exposed (n = 198)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 13px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTotal (N = 403)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ep-value\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 46px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFGM causes lifelong physical harm (True)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e204 (99.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e192 (97.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 13px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e396 (98.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.049\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 46px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFGM leads to mental health issues (True)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e197 (96.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e166 (83.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 13px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e363 (90.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 46px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFGM increases HIV risk (True)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e205 (100%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e195 (98.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 13px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e400 (99.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.056\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 46px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFGM is criminalized in Ethiopia (True)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e201 (98.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e189 (95.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 13px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e390 (96.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.123\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 46px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFGM enhances chastity/moral character (False)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e163 (79.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e127 (64.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 13px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e290 (72.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 46px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eReligious scriptures require FGM (False)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e182 (88.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e167 (84.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 13px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e349 (86.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.178\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 46px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFGM hinders sexual health (True)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e165 (80.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e149 (75.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 13px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e314 (77.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.197\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 46px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCM interrupts education (True)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e197 (96.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e181 (91.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 13px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e378 (93.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.042\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 46px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGirls under 18 are biologically mature for marriage (False)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e175 (85.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e159 (80.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 13px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e334 (82.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.162\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 46px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCM increases maternal mortality (True)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e202 (98.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e179 (90.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 13px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e381 (94.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 46px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCM increases spousal abuse (True)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e195 (95.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e173 (87.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 13px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e368 (91.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.005\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 46px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCM is outlawed in Ethiopia (True)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e201 (98.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e188 (94.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 13px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e389 (96.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.082\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 46px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDelaying marriage improves girls\u0026rsquo; independence (True)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e178 (86.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e153 (77.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 13px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e331 (82.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.009\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 46px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eComprehensive knowledge (mean % correct)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93.2%\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e84.6%\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 13px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e88.9%\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 12px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"5\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 100px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNote:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026quot;I don\u0026apos;t know\u0026quot; responses were merged with \u0026quot;No\u0026quot; due to low percentages across all items. Values in bold indicate statistical significance (p \u0026lt; 0.05).\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbbreviations:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eCM, child marriage; FGM, female genital mutilation; PMC, Population Media Center; PMC-E, Population Media Center-Ethiopia\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 4\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e. Attitude toward FGM statements, PMC-E evaluation study, target districts, May 2025 (N = 403: exposed = 205, non-exposed = 198)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"637\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAttitudinal statement about FGM\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResponse\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExposed (n = 205)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNon-exposed (n = 198)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ep-value\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFGM ensures a girl\u0026rsquo;s virginity and moral behavior.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0 (0.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2 (1.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.91\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.048\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e205 (100%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e196 (99.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEnsuring virginity and moral behavior through FGM is valuable.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (2.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (2.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.00\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.955\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e200 (97.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e193 (97.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFGM increases a girl\u0026rsquo;s marriage prospects by cleansing her body.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (0.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (2.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.85\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.091\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e204 (99.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e193 (97.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eImproving marriage prospects through FGM is fair.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2 (1.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3 (1.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.24\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.625\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e203 (99.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e195 (98.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFGM is a religious requirement.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (0.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4 (2.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.93\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.165\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e204 (99.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e194 (98.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFulfilling religious obligations through FGM is just.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (0.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2 (1.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.37\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.542\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e204 (99.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e196 (99.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFGM protects the family from shame.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1 (0.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10 (5.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7.90\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.005\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e204 (99.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e188 (94.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAvoiding family shame through FGM is acceptable.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3 (1.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8 (4.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.52\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.112\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e202 (98.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e190 (96.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFGM causes long-term physical and reproductive health problems. ⃰⃰ ⃰\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e171 (83.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e143 (72.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7.33\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.007\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34 (16.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e55 (27.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCondemning FGM\u0026apos;s health harms is a sign of weakness.⃰ ⃰\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13 (6.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e43 (21.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10.12\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e192 (93.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e155 (78.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFGM leads to psychological trauma and anxiety. ⃰ ⃰\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e172 (83.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e135 (68.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13.74\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33 (16.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e63 (31.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCausing FGM\u0026rsquo;s psychological harms is unfair.⃰ ⃰\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e163 (79.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e141 (71.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.74\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.053\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e42 (20.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e57 (28.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFGM is necessary for community acceptance.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (2.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14 (7.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.81\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.028\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e200 (97.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e184 (92.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGaining community acceptance through FGM is just.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3 (1.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8 (4.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.52\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.112\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e202 (98.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e190 (96.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFGM restricts women\u0026rsquo;s sexual autonomy. ⃰ ⃰\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e112 (54.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e92 (46.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.69\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.101\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e93 (45.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e106 (53.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRestricting sexual autonomy through FGM is important.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11 (5.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (2.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.13\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.144\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e194 (94.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e193 (97.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 232px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOverall anti-FGM attitude (% with attitudes against FGM) \u0026plusmn;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e90.2%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 101px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e81.4%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 47px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.01\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.014\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"6\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 637px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e⃰ ⃰ Anti-FGM statement (agreement indicates positive attitude toward abandoning FGM).\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003csup\u003e\u0026plusmn;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/strong\u003eComposite measure of overall attitude based on responses across all items.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbbreviations:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eFGM, female genital mutilation; PMC-E, Population Media Center-Ethiopia\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 5\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e. Attitudes toward CM statements, PMC-E evaluation study, target districts, May 2025 (N = 403: exposed = 205, non-exposed = 198)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAttitudinal statement about CM\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResponse\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExposed (n = 205)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNon-exposed (n = 198)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ep-value\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMarrying a girl early protects her from premarital sex and dishonor.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18 (8.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e27 (13.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e24.962\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e187 (91.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e171 (86.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAvoiding dishonor/premarital sex through early marriage is justifiable.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10 (4.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e28 (14.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16.256\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.003\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e195 (95.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e170 (85.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEarly marriage eases the family\u0026rsquo;s economic burden.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6 (2.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17 (8.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9.398\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.024\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e199 (97.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e181 (91.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eReducing economic burden through early marriage is fair.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6 (2.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16 (8.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.016\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.012\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e199 (97.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e182 (91.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGirls who marry early are better respected.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (2.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15 (7.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10.127\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.018\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e200 (97.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e183 (92.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGaining respect through early marriage is valuable.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7 (3.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17 (8.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13.483\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.009\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e198 (96.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e181 (91.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEarly marriage ensures girls settle down.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5 (2.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e27 (13.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e28.146\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e200 (97.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e171 (86.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSettling down early for girls is valuable.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e58 (28.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e68 (34.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12.302\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.015\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e147 (71.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e130 (65.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEarly marriage exposes girls to pregnancy-related complications.⃰ ⃰\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e182 (88.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e152 (76.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10.713\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.030\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23 (11.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46 (23.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFacing complications through early marriage is justifiable. ⃰ ⃰\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e116 (56.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e103 (52.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.802\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.591\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e89 (43.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e95 (48.0%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMarriage before age 18 ends a girl\u0026rsquo;s schooling. ⃰⃰ ⃰\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e186 (90.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e160 (80.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9.606\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.048\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e19 (9.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e38 (19.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLosing educational opportunity through early marriage is fair.⃰⃰\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e194 (94.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e182 (91.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9.899\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.042\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11 (5.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16 (8.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGirls have no decision-making power in early marriages.⃰⃰\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e31 (15.1%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e41 (20.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.922\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.205\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e174 (84.9%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e157 (79.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLimiting a girl\u0026rsquo;s autonomy through CM is justifiable. ⃰ ⃰\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e182 (88.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e175 (88.4%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7.085\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.131\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23 (11.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23 (11.6%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDelaying marriage helps girls achieve independence.⃰ ⃰\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e161 (78.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e134 (67.7%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15.265\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.004\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e44 (21.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e64 (32.3%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGaining independence through delayed marriage is acceptable. ⃰ ⃰\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e163 (79.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e135 (68.2%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13.925\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e0.008\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e42 (20.5%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e63 (31.8%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 241px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverall attitude (opposed to CM)\u0026plusmn;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 96px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e83.4%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 102px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e78.1%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.25\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 67px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026lt;0.001\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"6\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 638px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e⃰ ⃰ Anti-CM statement (response pattern varies; see note below).\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003csup\u003e\u0026plusmn;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/sup\u003eComposite measure of overall attitude based on responses across all items.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNote\u003c/strong\u003e: Statements marked with\u0026nbsp;⃰ ⃰ are anti-CM statements where the \u0026quot;favorable\u0026quot; response (indicating opposition to CM) varies depending on the question wording. For some, agreement indicates anti-CM attitude; for others, disagreement does.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbbreviations\u003c/strong\u003e: CM, child marriage; PMC-E, Population Media Center-Ethiopia\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 6\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e. Prevalence of FGM and CM, PMC-E evaluation study May 2025 (N = 855: exposed = 442 and non-exposed = 413)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"98%\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 35px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVariables\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNon-exposed (n = 442)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExposed (n = 413)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTotal\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 17px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStatistics\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFreq\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFreq\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFreq\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"3\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFemale children\u0026rsquo;s marital status\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 19px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMarried\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e122\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e29.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e121\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e27.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e243\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e28.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"3\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 17px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.446, p = 0.494\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 19px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eUnmarried\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e291\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e70.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e321\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e72.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e612\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e71.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 19px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e413\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e442\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e855\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"3\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCM status\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(n = 243)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 19px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCM (married before 18)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"3\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 17px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.352, p = 0.553\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 19px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLegal age of marriage (18 or older)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e115\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e94.3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e116\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e95.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e231\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e95.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 19px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e122\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e121\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e243\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"3\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFGM history\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e(n = 654)⃰\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 19px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e107\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e36.0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e117\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e32.8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e224\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34.3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"3\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 17px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 0.77, p = 0.380\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 19px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e190\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e64.0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e240\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e67.2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e430\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e65.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 19px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e297\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e357\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e69.2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e654\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"3\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 15px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePrevalence of FGM at \u0026lt; 15 years old\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 19px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e107\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e116\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e99.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e223\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e99.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"3\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 17px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026plusmn;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 19px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 19px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e107\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e117\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 8px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e224\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 7px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e100\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"9\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 100px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e⃰ Missing data are present.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026plusmn;No assumptions fulfilled for association.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbbreviations\u003c/strong\u003e: CM, child marriage; FGM, female genital mutilation; Freq, frequency; PMC-E, Population Media Center-Ethiopia\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 7\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e. Intention to prevent FGM and CM, PMC-E evaluation study, target districts, May 2025 (N = 403: exposed = 205, non-exposed = 198)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eItem\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResponse\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 119px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNon-exposed (n = 198)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 118px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExposed n = 205\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 151px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStatistics\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFGM-related items\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFreq\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFreq\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eExpect daughter will not be circumcised\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e22\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 151px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 7.846, p = 0.097\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e172\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e89.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e177\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e89.0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eResist FGM under pressure\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13.2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 151px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 8.337, p = 0.080\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e165\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e86.8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e175\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e89.3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWould refuse FGM invitation/request\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e19\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 151px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 10.902, p = 0.028\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e174\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e91.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e177\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e90.3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHave taken steps to prevent FGM\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e55\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e29.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 151px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 15.663, p = 0.004\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e131\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e70.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e161\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e84.3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIntend to circumcise daughter in the future\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e189\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e95.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e204\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e99.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 151px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 9.417, p = 0.009\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCM-related items\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 151px;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eExpect daughter will not marry before age 18\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e22\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 151px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 15.497, p = 0.004\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e175\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e88.8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e197\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e96.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eResist early marriage pressure\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e29\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 151px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 11.719, p =0.008\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e168\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e85.3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e193\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e94.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWould reject early marriage proposals\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 151px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 9.682, p = 0.046\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e184\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e93.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e201\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e98.0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePlan to delay daughter\u0026rsquo;s marriage\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10.2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 151px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 9.799, p = 0.020\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e176\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e89.8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e197\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e96.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 147px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIntend to marry daughter off before age18\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e184\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e93.4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e203\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e99.0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 151px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026chi;\u0026sup2; = 9.141, p = 0.010\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 89px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 54px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 65px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 52px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 66px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"7\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 623px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNote\u003c/strong\u003e: \u0026quot;Not sure\u0026quot; responses were merged with \u0026quot;Agree\u0026quot; for pro-FGM/CM statements and with \u0026quot;Disagree\u0026quot; for anti-FGM/CM statements.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbbreviations\u003c/strong\u003e: CM, child marriage; FGM, female genital mutilation; Freq, frequency; PMC-E, Population Media Center-Ethiopia\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":false,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":true,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"bmc-public-health","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"pubh","sideBox":"Learn more about [BMC Public Health](http://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/)","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"https://www.editorialmanager.com/pubh/default.aspx","title":"BMC Public Health","twitterHandle":"@BMC_series","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"em","reportingPortfolio":"BMC Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"female genital mutilation, child marriage, knowledge, attitudes, and practices, social behavioral change, social norms, multimedia intervention, Ethiopia","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-9117646/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-9117646/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBackground:\u003c/strong\u003e Female genital mutilation (FGM) and child marriage (CM) remain pervasive in Ethiopia, driven by entrenched social norms, gender inequalities, and economic factors. Despite legal prohibition, national prevalence stands at 65% for FGM and 40% for CM. In response, Population Media Center (PMC) collaborated with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to implement a multimedia social and behavior change (SBC) intervention to raise awareness, shift attitudes and norms, and reduce the practice of FGM and CM in 4 targeted woredas of southern Ethiopia. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the intervention in changing knowledge, attitudes, social norms, and practices related to FGM and CM.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethods:\u003c/strong\u003e A mixed-methods evaluation was conducted in May 2025 using a comparative cross-sectional survey and qualitative interviews. Respondents were categorized by exposure to the PMC multimedia intervention. Differences in knowledge, attitudes, behavioral intentions, social norms, and practices related to FGM and CM were analyzed. Chi-square tests determined statistical significance (\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ep\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/em\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u0026lt; 0.05), and \u003c/strong\u003equantitative insights were triangulated with qualitative insights.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResults:\u003c/strong\u003e Of 403 participants (205 exposed; 198 non-exposed; 73.7% female), the exposed group demonstrated significantly higher awareness (93.2% vs. 84.6%, \u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e \u0026lt; 0.001), stronger anti-FGM attitudes (90.2% vs. 81.4%, \u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e = 0.014), and stronger anti-CM attitudes (83.4% vs. 78.1%, \u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e \u0026lt; 0.001) compared to the non-exposed. \u0026nbsp;Total prevalence was 32.7% for FGM and 4.9% for CM. Qualitative data revealed that FGM persists covertly; families bypass legal restrictions by temporarily relocating girls to other villages for secret procedures. Despite high levels of awareness, deeply rooted sociocultural norms, marriageability myths, economic factors, social acceptability, and religious beliefs (“Sunna”) continue to perpetuate both practices.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConclusion:\u003c/strong\u003e Exposure to PMC multimedia SBC engagement was associated with significant improvements in awareness and attitudes. However, the continued practice of FGM through covert means underscores the power of interlinked sociocultural and religious norms. Accelerating the abandonment of FGM and CM requires scaling community dialogues, empowering girls and young people, fostering intergenerational dialogue, coordinating stakeholder efforts, and strengthening legal enforcement to move beyond individual attitude shifts toward collective social norm change.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Effectiveness of a multimedia campaign in shifting community knowledge, attitudes, social norms, and practices of FGM and CM in Ethiopia","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2026-03-26 07:30:01","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-9117646/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0},{"type":"decision","content":"Revision requested","date":"2026-04-29T10:53:31+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-04-27T12:40:15+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-04-23T19:39:49+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"251183611216494146513438058269879181211","date":"2026-04-20T15:26:58+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"332859887814335527567404689868368980726","date":"2026-04-20T07:00:00+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"63320733043588777372305447902824355940","date":"2026-04-15T06:58:36+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"58223534902948389033159523090721181097","date":"2026-04-14T13:32:08+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"58444667299814292695227192329548295968","date":"2026-03-24T10:08:51+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewersInvited","content":"","date":"2026-03-24T09:15:24+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorAssigned","content":"","date":"2026-03-24T05:20:50+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"checksComplete","content":"","date":"2026-03-23T18:05:20+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"submitted","content":"BMC Public Health","date":"2026-03-23T17:59:33+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"bmc-public-health","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"pubh","sideBox":"Learn more about [BMC Public Health](http://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/)","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"https://www.editorialmanager.com/pubh/default.aspx","title":"BMC Public Health","twitterHandle":"@BMC_series","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"em","reportingPortfolio":"BMC Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"f1f7a9ae-5d4d-465f-819c-01b95c44e028","owner":[],"postedDate":"March 26th, 2026","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"under-review","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-05-18T05:53:52+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2026-03-26 07:30:01","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-9117646","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-9117646","identity":"rs-9117646","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"XKTyCvWXoU3ODBz1xrDgd","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}