Fatal Attraction: HIV/AIDS and Family Formation in Southern Africa

Abstract

University of Washington Abstract Fatal Attraction: HIV/AIDS and Family Formation in Southern Africa Cara Margherio Chair of the Supervisory Committee: Samuel Clark Sociology Stewart Tolnay Sociology This dissertation examines the complex relationships between HIV/AIDS in southern Africa and family formation processes, specifically the transition to first marriage, contraceptive usage, abortion, and first births, focusing on the experience of women. A quantitative analysis using DHS data looks at the potential mechanisms linking relatively early age at first marriage to elevated risk of HIV infection, while the qualitative analysis examines how an HIV epidemic impacts the decision-making and norms surrounding marriage and childbearing.