Exploring the Role of Empathy in the Associations of Family Functioning and Purpose in Life with Attitude towards Abortion among Undergraduates: A Moderation Analysis

Authors: Ugwu JI , Apex-Apeh CO and Onyedire NG

DOI: 10.23880/pprij-16000461

Volume 10, Issue 3

Abstract

Although evidence exists on the impact of family functioning and purpose in life on attitudes toward abortion, studies examining factors that could moderate this link are sparse. The present study explored empathy as a moderator in the links between family functioning and purpose in life and attitude towards abortion among Nigerian undergraduates. Using a crosssectional design, 387 undergraduates aged 17-28years (77 male, 310 female; mean age = 20.82, SD = 2.07) were conveniently sampled. These participants completed relevant measures of family functioning, purpose in life, empathy, and attitudes towards abortion. The results revealed that family functioning, purpose in life, and empathy were significantly and positively associated with negative attitude towards abortion. Interestingly, empathy moderated the relationship between purpose in life and attitude towards abortion, such that undergraduates with high, moderate, and low levels of empathy had higher negative attitude towards abortion. These findings highlight the need for interventions that strengthen family support, promote a sense of purpose, and enhance empathy to shape informed attitude towards reproductive rights and healthcare services.

Keywords: Abortion; Family Functioning; Purpose in Life; Empathy

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