An economic approach to abortion demand

Area of Science:

• Health Economics
• Demography
• Applied Econometrics

Background:

• Understanding the socioeconomic determinants of abortion demand is crucial for public health policy and resource allocation.
• Previous research has explored various factors, but a comprehensive econometric analysis for the U.S. in 1985 is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the socioeconomic factors influencing the demand for abortion in the United States for the year 1985.
• To utilize a household choice theoretical framework to model abortion demand.

Main Methods:

• Econometric multiple regression techniques were employed.
• A cross-sectional analysis of the 50 U.S. states and Washington D.C. was conducted.
• The study utilized a household choice theoretical framework.

Main Results:

• Statistically significant factors affecting abortion demand include the average price of abortion, disposable personal per capita income, and the percentage of single women.
• State-level variables such as abortion funding, unemployment rate, divorce rate, and Far West regional location were also significant determinants.
• The model identified key socioeconomic and policy-related variables influencing abortion demand in 1985.

Conclusions:

• Socioeconomic conditions and state policies significantly shape abortion demand.
• The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers regarding the economic and social correlates of abortion utilization.
• Further research could explore these factors in different time periods and geographic contexts.