Patriarchy, Fertility and Excess Female Child Mortality in India
Abhishek Singh1,2, Kaushalendra Kumar1,2, Lotus McDougal3
1Department of Public Health and Mortality Studies, International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai, India.
Spatial Demography
|January 13, 2025
Summary
This study reveals a positive association between patriarchy and higher fertility rates and excess female child mortality in India. Addressing deep-rooted patriarchal norms is crucial for demographic change.
Area of Science:
- Demography
- Sociology
- Public Health
Background:
- Research on patriarchy's impact on demographic behavior in India is scarce.
- Previous studies relied on outdated census data (1981).
- A comprehensive measure of patriarchy was lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between patriarchy, using the India Patriarchy Index (IPI), and Total Fertility Rate (TFR).
- To investigate the link between patriarchy (IPI) and excess female child mortality.
- To analyze the independent associations of IPI's five dimensions with TFR and female child mortality.
Main Methods:
- Utilized univariate and bivariate Local Indicators of Spatial Autocorrelation (LISA).
- Employed multivariable ordinary least squares and spatial error regressions.
- Analyzed spatial heterogeneity in the associations.
Main Results:
- A positive association was found between the India Patriarchy Index (IPI) and both Total Fertility Rate (TFR) and excess female child mortality.
- Son preference and socio-economic domination were linked to higher TFR.
- Male domination and son preference were associated with increased excess female child mortality.
Conclusions:
- This study introduces a novel measure (IPI) to assess patriarchy's demographic impact in India.
- Patriarchal structures significantly correlate with fertility and female child mortality.
- Substantial societal shifts are required to alter entrenched patriarchal norms and practices.
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