Exploring Reproductive Coercion in South Asian Communities

This project will explore how South Asian women experience reproductive coercion (RC), with a focus on the influence of cultural norms, gender expectations, and son preference. Using qualitative interviews with women from South Asian backgrounds, the study will examine how RC is perpetrated not only by intimate partners but also by extended family members, and how pressures related to childbearing—particularly the preference for male children—shape women’s reproductive autonomy. The research will also explore how women navigate these experiences and the extent to which they seek or receive support. By centring lived experiences, this study will contribute to a deeper understanding of culturally specific forms of RC and provide insights for improving recognition and response in healthcare and community services. This project sits within SPHERE, an NHMRC-funded Centre of Research Excellence in Sexual and Reproductive Health for Women in Primary Care. SPHERE is led by Professor Danielle Mazza and supported by multidisciplinary students and researchers in the Department of General Practice. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to be part of this team with support from supervisors.