Recipients of PSC Small Grant Awards

Our overarching goal for the proposed project is to conduct a detailed, systematic analysis of variation
and change in pregnancy desires. To meet this goal, we have two specific aims:

1. Using Group-Based Trajectory Modeling (GBTM), determine the typical trajectories of pregnancy desire between ages 18 and 21, using the Relationship Dynamics and Social Life (RDSL) survey data.

2. Define a finite number of groups that correspond to the typical trajectories. Describe the groups in terms of the characteristics of the individual group members.

To meet these specific aims, we propose to use a unique dataset called the Relationship Dynamics and Social Life (RDSL) Study. RDSL began with a face-to-face baseline survey of 1,000 18- and 19-year-old women in Genesee County, Michigan. Over the next 2.5 years, these women provided weekly updates about their pregnancy desires, as well as experiences with pregnancy, relationships, contraceptive use, and related attitudes. The original RDSL grant was focused on data collection, and did not provide dedicated programmer time for complex statistical analysis. Applications for analysis grant money have been criticized for the lack of papers produced with the data thus far. The analyses proposed here will provide a springboard for an R01 proposal to analyze the determinants of change in pregnancy desire during the transition to adulthood.

Funding Source: PSC Initiatives