The Influence of Developmental Idealism on Fertility

Area of Science:

• Demography
• Sociology
• Development Studies

Background:

• Developmental idealism (DI) theory posits that cultural schemas influence demographic behavior.
• Previous research has not empirically tested DI's impact on fertility decisions.
• Nepal experienced significant fertility decline between 2008 and 2014.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine if individuals' endorsement of developmental idealism influences their subsequent fertility behavior.
• To assess if DI's influence on fertility varies based on the number of existing children.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of panel data from the Chitwan Valley Family Study (2008-2014).
• Examination of specific DI schemas: low fertility linked to development and positive attitudes toward fertility decline.
• Comparison of DI's effect on women with varying numbers of children (0-1 vs. 2+).

Main Results:

• High DI endorsement reduced the probability of an additional birth by over 50% for women with two or more children.
• DI endorsement did not significantly affect progression to first or second births.
• Nepali policy promoting a two-child ideal aligns with DI principles.

Conclusions:

• Developmental idealism significantly impacts fertility decisions, particularly for women with existing children.
• The spread of DI culture may contribute to national fertility decline by encouraging smaller family sizes.
• Findings highlight the interplay between cultural beliefs, development ideology, and demographic change.