Sex selection technology utilization: further implications for sex ratio imbalance

A survey of 242 undergraduates assessed attitudes toward use of sex selection technology and the choice of sex of first- and second-born offspring among potential users. Of our sample, 31 per cent endorsed use of sex selection technology, with the small subsample of nonwhites more accepting of utilization than were whites. There was a significant preference for first-born sons among all potential users, but nonwhites indicated a stronger preference than did whites. Students from rural areas were more desirous of boys than were urban residents. The desire for gender balance within the family documented in earlier studies did not manifest itself. Choice of gender of second child was independent of preference for first-born, with 54 per cent of the potential users desiring sons as both first and second children.