By Felicia Taraczkozy
Dr. Christopher Manner, associate professor of business, was recently recognized for his research on the adaptation model as it relates to contraceptives and migration in Malaysia.
His research, which began in the early 1990s, will be published in the January issue of the “Journal of Population and Social Studies.”
Manner’s research is some of the first on the topic of fertility behavior.
He said people in Malaysia are increasingly moving from rural areas into cities. During the transition, statistics show migrants are having fewer children than those who stay in rural areas. Manner said there are three opinions of why this is the case: selection, disruption or adaptation.
Manner said he believes migrants are less fertile because of the adaptation theory, and that those moving from rural areas to cities are using contraceptives.
According to Manner, Malaysia has faced a growing population as a result of rapid rural-urban migration. In response to these long-term demographic changes, obstacles like overcrowding and strains on resources have become serious problems.
“I believe my research can help policy-makers make better decisions on population issues,” Manner said.
Although he enjoyed his research, the toughest obstacle he faced was finding effective data on the use of contraceptives in developing countries like Malaysia.
“I’m very blessed to have my work published,” Manner said. “It took me a long time to find someone who would because it doesn’t really fit into any specific subject like economics or social studies.”
