Methodology in research

CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction
This chapter outlines the methodology employed in the study, including the research design, area of study, study population, sample population and selection, sampling techniques, data collection methods, data quality control, data collection procedures, and the limitations encountered during the study.

3.2 Research Design
The study utilized both qualitative and quantitative research methods, incorporating a cross-sectional and case study design. This design was chosen because it allowed for data collection within a short timeframe and from a relatively large number of respondents in their natural settings (Creswell, 2003; Koul, 2005). Both qualitative and quantitative approaches were essential due to the complexity of the household factors and teenage pregnancy issues within Nakawa Division, Kampala.

3.3 Area of the Study
The study was conducted in Nakawa Division, located in central Uganda, within Kampala District. According to UBOS (2012), the population in Nakawa had been growing rapidly, from 359,100 in 2010 to 394,400 by 2012. This rapid population increase was largely attributed to rising teenage pregnancy rates, making Nakawa an appropriate study area for investigating household factors contributing to teenage pregnancy.

3.4 Study Population and Sample Size
The study included 50 respondents, with 30 pregnant teenagers aged 13-19 attending antenatal care at Naguru Hospital and Kiswa Health Centre. Each health facility contributed 15 pregnant teenagers. Additionally, 20 key informants, including health workers, police officers from the Family and Child Protection Unit, and teachers, were included. Given Nakawa’s total population of 376,300 (UBOS, 2014), selecting a sample of 50 respondents was deemed practical.

3.5 Sampling Techniques
As Mugenda and Mugenda (2003) note, it is often impractical to study an entire population, so the researcher opted for a sample. Both probability and non-probability sampling techniques were used:

• Probability Sampling: Stratified sampling, specifically disproportionate sampling, was employed to select an equal number of respondents (15) from each health facility. Simple random sampling was used to ensure all subjects had an equal chance of being selected. Respondents were chosen from the antenatal register using a lottery method.
• Non-Probability Sampling: Purposive sampling was used to select key informants with knowledge or access to information on teenage pregnancy.

3.6 Sources of Data

3.6.1 Primary Data
Primary data was directly collected from respondents using questionnaires, interview guides, focus group discussions, and observation checklists (Amin, 2005). This method allowed for firsthand data collection and observation of respondents’ emotions, which would not have been possible with secondary data. Questionnaires and interview guides were the main tools for gathering primary data on household factors and teenage pregnancy.

3.6.2 Secondary Data
Secondary data, defined as data collected by other individuals or agencies for purposes other than the current study (Bell, 1997), was sourced from literature related to household factors and teenage pregnancy. Sources included textbooks, newspapers, the internet, and journals. Secondary data was utilized because it often provides accurate and cost-effective information.

3.7 Data Collection Methods
The researcher employed both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods, primarily in-depth interviews and questionnaires. Interviews were conducted with key informants and pregnant teenagers to obtain direct feedback and allow for deeper exploration of the research topic. Questionnaires were administered to pregnant teenagers, providing respondents with sufficient time to reflect and answer thoroughly.

3.8 Data Collection Tools

• Interview Guide: This predetermined tool was used to conduct interviews with key informants, focusing on household factors contributing to teenage pregnancy in Nakawa Division.
• Questionnaires: The questionnaire contained four sections: demographic/bio-data, household income and teenage pregnancy, parental marital status and teenage pregnancy, and effects of teenage pregnancy. Both open-ended and closed questions were included to comprehensively address the research objectives.

3.9 Data Processing and Analysis
Raw data was coded, edited, and organized for analysis. Only completed data was analyzed using statistical tables and graphs. The primary data was entered into a statistical package for analysis, aiding in the derivation of conclusions. Statistical tables were also used to analyze field data.

3.10 Ethical Considerations
An introductory letter was obtained from the Department of Sociology and Social Administration to gain approval for the study. Confidentiality and anonymity were ensured throughout the research process. Respondents participated voluntarily, and their consent was sought prior to participation. The researcher was responsible for safeguarding the respondents’ information to prevent any harm or misuse.

3.11 Limitations of the Study
The study faced several challenges, including discomfort among some respondents when answering interview questions. Additionally, language barriers posed difficulties, particularly when pregnant teenagers needed to communicate in local languages that the researcher did not understand