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Son preference and the demand for additional children in Pakistan
Demography
|November 1, 1977
Summary
This study on Pakistani women reveals a strong preference for sons among both husbands and wives when deciding on family size. Economic, sociological, and demographic factors influence the desire for more children.
Area of Science:
- Demography
- Sociology
- Economics
Background:
- Fertility decisions are sequential and influenced by various factors.
- Previous research by Namboodiri explored fertility decision-making.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the "desire to have additional children" in Pakistan.
- To identify economic, sociological, and demographic predictors of fertility desires.
- To investigate the sequential nature of fertility decisions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized probit maximum likelihood estimation.
- Analyzed cross-sectional data from a 1968-1969 national survey.
- Included 2,910 currently married women in Pakistan.
Main Results:
- A significant son preference was observed for both husbands and wives.
- Economic, sociological, and demographic variables partially explain the desire for more children.
Conclusions:
- Son preference is a key factor in fertility decisions in Pakistan.
- Understanding these preferences is crucial for family planning initiatives.