1.  Peer Reviewed Title: Second-trimester abortions and sex-selection of children in Hanoi, Vietnam. Author: Belanger D; Oanh KT Source: Population Studies. 2009 Jul;63(2):163-71. Abstract: Because sex-selective abortions are generally conducted during the second term of the pregnancy, timing of abortion can be used as an indirect way of studying sex-selection by abortion. We examined the likelihood of having a first-trimester vs. second-trimester abortion among a group of 885 married women who had an abortion in an obstetric hospital in Hanoi in 2003. In the absence of sex-selection by abortion, the number and sex of living children should not affect the timing of abortion. Results indicate that women with more children, particularly those with more daughters or without a son, were more likely to undergo a second-term abortion than a first-term abortion. We estimate that, in 2003, 2 per cent of all abortions to women with at least one living child were intended to avoid the birth of a female. Language: English Keywords: VIETNAM | URBAN AREAS | RESEARCH REPORT | ABORTION | CURRENTLY MARRIED | SONS | PREGNANCY, FIRST TRIMESTER | PREGNANCY, SECOND TRIMESTER | SEX PRESELECTION | SEX PREFERENCE | SEX RATIO | POPULATION POLICY | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Geographic Factors | Population | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Reproductive Technologies | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Sex Distribution | Sex Factors | Population Characteristics | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors Document Number: 342945 Notification |
| 2. Peer Reviewed Title: Recent increase in sex ratio at birth in Viet Nam. Author: Guilmoto CZ; Hoang X; Van TN Source: PLoS One. 2009;4(2):e4624. Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Since the 1980s, sex ratio at birth (male births per 100 female births) has increased in many Asian countries as a result of selective abortions, but to date there has been no such evidence for Viet Nam. Our aim in this paper is to ascertain the situation with respect to sex ratio at birth in Viet Nam over the past five years. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Original data were obtained from sample population surveys in Viet Nam recording annual birth rates since 2000 of about 450,000 women, as well as from two successive birth surveys conducted for the first time in 2007 (1.1 million births). The annual population surveys include specific information on birth history and mothers' characteristics to be used for the analysis of trends and differentials in sex ratio at birth. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Birth history statistics indicate that the SRB in Viet Nam has recorded a steady growth since 2001. Starting from a level probably close to the biological standard of 105, the SRB reached 108 in 2005 and 112 in 2006, a value significantly above the normal level. An independent confirmation of these results comes from the surveys of births in health facilities which yielded a SRB of 110 in 2006-07. High SRB is linked to various factors such as access to modern health care, number of prenatal visits, level of higher education and employment status, young age, province of residence and prenatal sex determination. These results suggest that prenatal sex determination followed by selective abortion has recently become more common in Viet Nam. This recent trend is a consequence of various factors such as preference for sons, declining fertility, easy access to abortion, economic development as well as the increased availability of ultrasonography facilities. Language: English Keywords: VIETNAM | RESEARCH REPORT | DATA ANALYSIS | SONS | SEX RATIO | MATERNAL HEALTH SERVICES | EMPLOYMENT STATUS | SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS | ABORTION | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | ANTENATAL CARE | SEX PREFERENCE | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Sex Distribution | Sex Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Maternal-Child Health Services | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 331220 Notification |
| 3. Peer Reviewed Title: Sex preference as a determinant of contraceptive use in matrilineal societies: a study on the Garo of Bangladesh. Author: Islam MA; Islam MR; Banowary B Source: European Journal of Contraception and Reproductive Health Care. 2009 Aug;14(4):301-6. Abstract: OBJECTIVES: This paper explores the presence of sex preference and its influence on contraceptive use among the Garo, a matrilineal community, of Bangladesh. METHODS: In this study, 223 currently married Garo women were interviewed, selected purposively from two districts of Bangladesh, where most of the Garo people live. A binary logistic regression model was fitted to explore the determinants of current use of contraceptives among the Garo community. RESULTS: About 80% of the Garo women were currently using contraceptive methods, which was much higher than the contraceptive prevalence at the national level (55.8%). However, the use of modern male methods was very low in that community. Regression analysis revealed that the strong preference for girls was a significant determinant of contraceptive use. CONCLUSIONS: Even though the Garo apply contraception more than the Bangladeshi community in general, their strong preference for girls may restrain its success. Family planning information can be designed so as not to challenge the matrilineal structure of the society and both spouses counselled together to promote also modern male methods. Language: English Keywords: BANGLADESH | RESEARCH REPORT | STATISTICAL REGRESSION | ETHNIC GROUPS | CURRENTLY MARRIED | WOMEN | SEX PREFERENCE | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE DETERMINANTS | MATRIARCHY | INTERVIEWS | SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Data Analysis | Research Methodology | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Contraceptive Usage | Contraception | Family Planning | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Data Collection | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors Document Number: 342129 |
| 4. Title: The relationship of family size and composition to fertility desires, contraceptive adoption and method choice in South Asia. Author: Jayaraman A; Mishra V; Arnold F Source: International Perspectives On Sexual and Reproductive Health. 2009 Mar;35(1):29-38. Abstract: CONTEXT: Many countries in South Asia, including Nepal, India and Bangladesh, demonstrate a strong cultural preference for sons, which may influence fertility desires and contraceptive use. METHODS: Demographic and Health Survey data from married, nonpregnant women aged 15-49 who had at least one child were used to examine the relationship of parity and number of sons to reproductive outcomes in Nepal, India and Bangladesh. Outcomes of interest were desire for another child, contraceptive use and type of contraceptive (modern vs. traditional, temporary vs. permanent). Odds ratios and relative risk ratios were calculated using binary and multinomial logistic regression. RESULTS: In general, desire for another child decreased and contraceptive use increased as the number of children and number of sons increased. These associations were more prominent in Nepal and India than in Bangladesh. For example, compared with women who had three daughters and no sons, the odds of contraceptive use among women with two sons and one daughter were 4.8 in Nepal, 3.5 in India and 2.0 in Bangladesh. Within India, the associations of parity and number of sons with reproductive outcomes were generally stronger in northern states than in South India or West Bengal. CONCLUSIONS: Son preference remains widespread in all three countries and has a major influence on reproductive behavior. Reducing such preference would require a change in social norms and attitudes of the people and an improvement of the status of women. Language: English Keywords: ASIA | NEPAL | BANGLADESH | INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | SONS | SEX PREFERENCE | FAMILY SIZE | FAMILY SIZE, DESIRED | CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS CHOSEN | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Contraceptive Usage | Contraception | Family Planning Document Number: 341316 |
5.  Title: Ratio of males to females in China is still high, but only partly because of the one child policy [editorial] Author: Liu T; Zhang XY Source: BMJ. 2009;338:b483. Abstract: China's high ratio of males to females would have persisted if attitudes towards female offspring had not changed. Encouragingly, it seems that the tradition of preferring sons is shifting with the socioeconomic changes that come with urbanisation and industrialisation. For example, more and more young women in the cities claim to prefer a small family, and-more importantly- they have no preference for one sex over the other. Indeed, Zhu and colleagues report a decrease in the male to female ratio for the 2005 cohort, which may indicate the beginning of a reduction in the male to female sex ratio for the future. China can learn much from its neighbouring countries about reversing the worsening sex ratio. Korea was the first country to report very high male to female ratios at birth because of the preference for sons and the widespread use of sex selective technology. In 1992, the male to female ratio for fourth births in South Korea was an astounding 229:100, in sharp contrast to the overall ratio of 114:100. From the mid- 1990s, however, a public awareness campaign warning of the dangers of such distortion, combined with strictly enforced laws forbidding sex selection technology, has led to a decline in the male to female ratio from 116:100 in 1998 to 110:100 in 2004. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: CHINA | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | POPULATION | ONE CHILD POLICY | SEX RATIO | AGE FACTORS | ABORTION | SEX PREFERENCE | REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGIES | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Antinatalist Policy | Population Policy | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Sex Distribution | Sex Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Reproduction Document Number: 331269 Notification |
| 6. Peer Reviewed Title: Dreams of tigers and flowers: child gender predictions and preference in an urban mainland Chinese sample during pregnancy. Author: Loo KK; Luo X; Su H; Presson A; Li Y Source: Women and Health. 2009 Jan-Feb;49(1):50-65. Abstract: In an urban, mainland Chinese sample, we investigated expectant mothers' stated gender preference for a boy or girl child, their conjectures on the fetal gender, the culture-specific beliefs for making their predictions, and their relations to sociodemographic variables. A total of 174 women were interviewed at 12-19 weeks gestation. Among 84 women who made a prediction on gender, 56 (67%) thought they were carrying a boy, and 28 (33%) expected a girl. The most frequent reasons cited for their speculation were personal feelings (36%), food/taste preference (13%), feedback from others (13%), somatic responses (13%), and dreams (7%). Out of 63 women who stated a wish for a boy or girl child, 45 (71%) wished for a girl and 18 (29%) wished for a boy. Women with undergraduate or graduate degrees were more likely to indicate a preference for boys. Older expectant mothers were more likely to report that they thought they were carrying boys. In conclusion, the majority of the women did not state a distinct choice for gender of the child. When they expressed a gender preference, more mothers expressed a desire to have a girl. However, boy child conjectures were more frequent than girl child conjectures. Greater boy child preference and prediction among the most highly educated and older expectant mothers might be reflective of implicit social status in having sons in urban China. Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | URBAN POPULATION | PARENTS | CULTURE | PREGNANCY | BELIEFS | FOLKLORE | ONE CHILD POLICY | FAMILY LIFE | SEX PREFERENCE | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Reproduction | Antinatalist Policy | Population Policy | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 341756 |
| 7. Peer Reviewed Title: Does sex of children matter? Implications for fertility in Pakistan. Author: Muhammad A Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2009 Jan;41(1):39-50. Abstract: Preference for children of either sex is considered a constraint on fertility decline as it induces many couples to keep adding on surviving children in the hope of having a desired sex composition of children. However, preferences for children of a particular sex may differ in relation to demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of women, traditional values and cultural practices, such as propagating a family name, providing economic advantages, and obtaining a medium of social and economic security in times of illness, unemployment and old age. Utilizing the Pakistan Integrated Household Survey (2001-02), this paper aims at investigating the existence of sex preference and examines sex preference differentials by different attributes of women in Pakistan. The results reveal that there is a desire to have another child in the presence of all children of one sex, either sons or daughters. The desire to have a son with only or mostly daughters, however, is stronger than the desire to have a daughter with only or mostly sons. This behaviour will retard fertility decline unless there is a shift in the desire to have children of both sexes in Pakistan. Language: English Keywords: PAKISTAN | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | SONS | DAUGHTERS | SEX PREFERENCE | REPRODUCTIVE BEHAVIOR | FERTILITY DECLINE | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Fertility Changes Document Number: 330511 |
| 8. Title: The unknown genocide: how one country's culture is destroying the girl child. Author: Sumner MM Source: International Journal of Nursing Practice. 2009 Apr;15(2):65-8. Abstract: Female feticide and infanticide is occurring at an alarming rate in India as a result of preference for sons. The cultural reasons for sex-selective abortions and the government's current strategies against this problem are identified. However, the problem's scope might be too great for the Indian government. Humanitarian efforts are needed to save the girl child. Nurses are a key group of people that need to be made aware of this issue as they are advocates for vulnerable populations. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | CRITIQUE | SONS | INFANTICIDE | ABORTION | ULTRASONICS | SEX PRESELECTION | LEGISLATION | SEX PREFERENCE | SOCIAL DISCRIMINATION | WOMEN'S STATUS | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Crime | Social Problems | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Reproductive Technologies | Reproduction | Political Factors | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors Document Number: 342479 Notification |
| 9. Peer Reviewed Title: Female selective abortion - beyond 'culture': family making and gender inequality in a globalising India. Author: Unnithan-Kumar M Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2009 May 12;:1. Abstract: There is an emerging global discourse on female selective abortion (FSA) as several Asian countries witness an increasing imbalance in their sex ratios in favour of boys. While there is an attendant increase in demographic and social surveys on the issue, little is understood about FSA as either a desired or contested practice of family making in the contexts in which it is practiced. Drawing on the accounts of feminists, doctors and lower, middle-class Hindu and Muslim women and their families in Rajasthan, Northern India, the paper explores differing perceptions and attitudes to FSA in the region. Focusing on the agency of pregnant women who resort to FSA, the paper suggests that gender inequality and marriage anxieties shape especially lower-middle-class women's engagement with reproductive technologies, including those of sex selection. The paper also concludes that the decisions of both Hindu and Muslim lower-middle-class women to abort female babies is informed by their shared, pragmatic understanding of the economic realities of gender discrimination and of their social obligation as wives to reproduce a particular quality of patriarchal family. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | INEQUALITIES | SEX PREFERENCE | PERCEPTION | ATTITUDES | SEX DISCRIMINATION | FEAR | MARRIAGE | REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGIES | SOCIAL CLASS | ECONOMIC FACTORS | ABORTION | PATRIARCHY | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Socioeconomic Factors | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Social Discrimination | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Emotions | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Reproduction | Socioeconomic Status | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Family Characteristics | Family and Household Document Number: 341495 |
| 10. Title: China's excess males, sex selective abortion, and one child policy: analysis of data from 2005 national intercensus survey. Author: Zhu WX; Lu L; Hesketh T Source: BMJ. 2009;338:b1211. Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To elucidate current trends and geographical patterns in the sex ratio at birth and in the population aged under 20 in China and to determine the roles played by sex selective abortion and the one child policy. DESIGN: Analysis of household based cross sectional population survey done in November 2005. SETTING: All of China's 2861 counties. Population 1% of the total population, selected to be broadly representative of the total. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Sex ratio defined as males per 100 females. RESULTS: 4 764 512 people under the age of 20 were included. Overall sex ratios were high across all age groups and residency types, but they were highest in the 1-4 years age group, peaking at 126 (95% confidence interval 125 to 126) in rural areas. Six provinces had sex ratios of over 130 in the 1-4 age group. The sex ratio at birth was close to normal for first order births but rose steeply for second order births, especially in rural areas, where it reached 146 (143 to 149). Nine provinces had ratios of over 160 for second order births. The highest sex ratios were seen in provinces that allow rural inhabitants a second child if the first is a girl. Sex selective abortion accounts for almost all the excess males. One particular variant of the one child policy, which allows a second child if the first is a girl, leads to the highest sex ratios. CONCLUSIONS: In 2005 males under the age of 20 exceeded females by more than 32 million in China, and more than 1.1 million excess births of boys occurred. China will see very high and steadily worsening sex ratios in the reproductive age group over the next two decades. Enforcing the existing ban on sex selective abortion could lead to normalisation of the ratios. Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | HOUSEHOLDS | ONE CHILD POLICY | ABORTION | SEX PREFERENCE | SEX RATIO | HUMAN GEOGRAPHY | AGE FACTORS | POPULATION PROJECTION | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Antinatalist Policy | Population Policy | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Sex Distribution | Sex Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Geography | Social Sciences | Science | Estimation Techniques Document Number: 331270 Notification |
| 11. Title: Determinants of induced abortion and its consequences on women's reproductive health: Findings from India's National Family Health Surveys. Author: Agrawal S Source: Calverton, Maryland, Macro International, MEASURE DHS, 2008 Aug. [66] p. (DHS Working Papers No. 53USAID Contract No. GPO-C-00-03-00002-00) Abstract: At the national level, sex composition of living children, women's autonomy, urban residence, couple's education, and wealth status were found to be significantly associated with experience of induced abortion among women. However, the factors associated with induced abortion are found to be different in two distinct sociocultural set-ups in India. Although sex composition of living children and couple's education were the major factors for induced abortion in the northern group of states, wealth status and caste / tribe status were the major factors for the southern group of states. The analysis also shows that, independent of other factors, the likelihood of experiencing any reproductive health problems was 1.5 times higher (odds ratio, 1.46; 95 percent confidence interval, 1.33-1.60; P < .001) among women who had one induced abortion and 1.9 times higher (odds ratio, 1.85; 95 percent confidence interval, 1.52- 2.27; P < .001) among women who had two or more induced abortions compared with women with no history of induced abortion. This study identifies women's desire to limit family size with preferred sex composition of children as an important determinant of induced abortion in India. The study also suggests that induced abortions may have negative consequences for women's reproductive health. There is a need for more in-depth qualitative studies at the regional level to better understand the determinants and consequences of this complex and sensitive issue in India. Programs should focus more on the availability and accessibility of contraceptives among women to elude the reproductive health consequences of induced abortion. (Excerpts) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | SUMMARY REPORT | SURVEYS | DATA ANALYSIS | WOMEN | SONS | EVER MARRIED | ABORTION | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | AGE FACTORS | RELIGION | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | EMPLOYMENT STATUS | INCOME | SEX PREFERENCE | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Health | Population Characteristics | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 331448 |
| 12. Peer Reviewed Title: Knowing the fetal gender and its relationship to seeking prenatal care: results from Jordan. Author: Al-Akour NA Source: Maternal and Child Health Journal. 2008 Nov;12(6):787-92. Abstract: OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between knowing fetal gender and seeking prenatal care. METHODS: Four-hundred and eighty-four postpartum mothers identified before discharge from the maternity unit participated in this study. We collected data from the women using two sources: a demographic data questionnaire and reviews of hospital records. The number of prenatal care visits during pregnancy was determined to assess the adequacy of prenatal care. In the current study, we defined less-than-adequate prenatal care as less than nine prenatal care visits. RESULTS: The data showed that Jordanian women had a strong preference for male babies. The findings suggested that knowing the fetal gender was significantly related to the mean number (7.01+/-2.75) of prenatal care visits by the mother. When the prenatal gender was known the mean number of prenatal care visits of women pregnant with male fetuses (8.91+/-1.25) was significantly higher than that of female fetuses (5.32+/-2.64). Knowledge of fetal gender may thus increase the risk of less-than-adequate care among pregnant women with female fetuses (52.7%) compared to male fetuses (29%). CONCLUSIONS: Jordanian women had a strong preference for male babies. Given prenatal knowledge of the gender is related to adequate prenatal care seeking behavior. Language: English Keywords: JORDAN | RESEARCH REPORT | QUESTIONNAIRES | POSTPARTUM WOMEN | MOTHERS | DAUGHTERS | ANTENATAL CARE | GENDER ISSUES | SEX PREFERENCE | Developing Countries | Middle East | Puerperium | Reproduction | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Maternal Health Services | Maternal-Child Health Services | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 330494 |
| 13. Peer Reviewed Title: The linked survival prospects of siblings: Evidence for the Indian states. Author: Arulampalam W; Bhalotra S Source: Population Studies. 2008;62(2):171-190. Abstract: This paper reports an analysis of micro-data for India that shows a high correlation in infant mortality among siblings. In 13 of 15 states, we identify a causal effect of infant death on the risk of infant death of the subsequent sibling (a scarring effect), after controlling for mother-level heterogeneity. The scarring effects are large, the only other covariate with a similarly large effect being mother's (secondary or higher) education. The two states in which evidence of scarring is weak are Punjab, the richest, and Kerala, the socially most progressive. The size of the scarring effect depends upon the sex of the previous child in three states, in a direction consistent with son-preference. Evidence of scarring implies that policies targeted at reducing infant mortality will have social multiplier effects by helping avoid the death of subsequent siblings. Comparison of other covariate effects across the states offers some interesting new insights. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | SIBLINGS | INFANT | SURVIVORSHIP | INFANT MORTALITY | CHILD SURVIVAL | SEX FACTORS | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | SEX PREFERENCE | SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS | SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Research Methodology | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Length of Life | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 327734 |
| 14. Peer Reviewed Title: 'Too many girls, too much dowry': son preference and daughter aversion in rural Tamil Nadu, India. Author: Diamond-Smith N; Luke N; McGarvey S Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2008 Oct;10(7):697-708. Abstract: The southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu has experienced a dramatic decline in fertility, accompanied by a trend of increased son preference. This paper reports on findings from qualitative interviews with women in rural villages about their fertility decision-making. Specifically addressed are the reasons behind increasing son preference and the consequences of this change. Findings suggest that daughter aversion, fuelled primarily by the perceived economic burden of daughters due to the proliferation of dowry, is playing a larger role in fertility decision-making than son preference. The desire for a son is often trumped by the worry over having many daughters. Women use various means of controlling the sex of their children, which in this study appear to be primarily female infanticide. It is important to distinguish between son preference and daughter aversion and to examine repercussions of low fertility within this setting. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | RURAL POPULATION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | DOWRY | SEX PREFERENCE | FERTILITY DECLINE | HOME ECONOMICS | PERCEPTION | INFANTICIDE | ATTITUDES | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Nuptiality | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Fertility Changes | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Microeconomic Factors | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 329318 |
| 15. Peer Reviewed Title: The path to replacement fertility in Egypt: Acceptance, preference, and achievement. Author: El-Zeini LO Source: Studies in Family Planning. 2008 Sep;39(3):161-176. Abstract: This study draws upon data from the 2004 Slow Fertility Transition survey, a follow-up to the 2003 Egypt Interim Demographic and Health Survey, to investigate obstacles to achieving replacement fertility. To account for the likelihood of embracing the two-child ideal, the analysis adopts a framework with the acronym APA: Acceptance of the two-child ideal, Preference for that ideal, and Achievement of that preference. The framework posits a hierarchy among the three and hypothesizes that each depends on a set of factors, including gender stratification, economic expectations, perception of the costs and benefits of having children, and the costs of fertility regulation. The results indicate that son preference and the perceived low cost of childrearing are major obstacles to the acceptance of the two-child family. Son preference, other discriminatory gender attitudes, optimistic economic expectations, and fear of contraceptive side effects are associated with a low preference for and ambivalence about having only two children. Given a decisive preference, lower socioeconomic status and strong son preference are the major obstacles to the achievement of the two-child ideal. (author's) Language: English Keywords: EGYPT | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | POPULATION REPLACEMENT | FAMILY SIZE, IDEAL | CHILD WORTH | PERCEPTION | SEX PREFERENCE | FEMALE ROLE | FERTILITY DETERMINANTS | FERTILITY PREFERENCES | DEMOGRAPHIC TRANSITION | SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Size | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Microeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Value Orientation | Social Behavior | Fertility | Socioeconomic Factors Document Number: 328153 |
| 16. Title: Cross-national variation in attitudinal measures of gender preference for children: An examination of Demographic and HealthSurveys from 40 countries. Author: Fuse K Source: Calverton, Maryland, MACRO International, MEASURE DHS, 2008 Jul. 38 p. (DHS Working Papers No. 44USAID Contract No. GPO-C-00-03-00002-00) Abstract: While much research has examined gender preferences for children by studying behavioral measures such as skewed sex ratios, sex imbalance in infant mortality, and sibling size and order, attitudinal measures have been analyzed less systematically. Using data from 40 Demographic and Health Surveys conducted between 2000 and 2006, this paper advances understanding of gender preferences for children in developing countries by examining attitudinal measures of gender preference cross-nationally. This paper also explores basic socioeconomic determinants of attitudinal gender preference. Findings of this study show that, while the most popular type of preference in the vast majority of countries is balance preference (preference for an equal number of girls and boys), countries and regions vary widely in prevalence of son and daughter preferences. Daughter preference is common in most of Latin America/Caribbean, some of Southeast Asia, and in about one-third of sub-Saharan African countries. Son preference is most common in North Africa, South Asia, some of Southeast Asia, and in about two-thirds of sub-Sahara African countries examined. Of the socioeconomic factors examined, lower educational attainment and lower levels of household wealth generally explain gender preferences for children, particularly in countries where son preference is pronounced. Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | SUMMARY REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | CHILDREN | SONS | SEX RATIO | SEX DISTRIBUTION | INFANT MORTALITY | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | SEX PREFERENCE | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Sex Factors | Mortality | Economic Factors | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 331581 |
| 17. Peer Reviewed Title: Maintaining access to safe abortion and reducing sex ratio imbalances in Asia. Author: Ganatra B Source: Reproductive Health Matters. 2008 May;16(31 Suppl):90-8. Abstract: High sex ratios at birth (108 boys to 100 girls or higher) are seen in China, Taiwan, South Korea and parts of India and Viet Nam. The imbalance is the result of son preference, accentuated by declining fertility. Prenatal sex detection with ultrasound followed by second trimester abortion is one of the ways sex selection manifests itself, but it is not the causative factor. Advocates and governments seeking to reverse this imbalance have largely prohibited sex detection tests and/or sex selective abortion, assuming these measures would reverse the trend. Such policies have been difficult to enforce and have met with only limited success. At the same time, such policies are starting to have adverse effects on the already limited access to safe and legal second trimester abortion for reasons other than sex selection. Moreover, the sex selection issue is being used as a platform for anti-abortion rhetoric by certain groups. Maintaining access to safe abortion and achieving a decline in high sex ratios are both important goals. Both are possible if the focus shifts to addressing the conditions that drive son preference. Language: English Keywords: ASIA | RESEARCH REPORT | SONS | SEX PREFERENCE | PREGNANCY, SECOND TRIMESTER | SEX DETERMINATION | SEX PRESELECTION | Developing Countries | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Reproductive Technologies Document Number: 330098 |
| 18. Title: Female feticide in India: Issues and concerns. Author: Garg S; Nath A Source: Journal of Postgraduate Medicine. 2008 Oct;54(4):276-279. Abstract: The preference for a son continues to be a prevalent norm in the traditional Indian household. This is evident from the declining sex ratio which has dropped to alarming levels, especially in the northern states according to Census 2001 reports. The proliferation and abuse of advanced technologies coupled with social factors contributing to the low status of women such as dowry, concerns with family name and looking up to the son as a breadwinner has made the evil practice of female feticide to become common in the middle and higher socioeconomic households, especially in the northern states. Despite the existence of the Prenatal Diagnostic Techniques Act, there is a dire need to strengthen this law since the number of convictions is despairingly low as compared to the burden posed by this crime. Moreover, it is necessary to gear efforts against the cultural, economic and religious roots of this social malady by woman empowerment and intensive Information, Education and Communication campaigns. The medical colleges and professional bodies have a vital role to play by sensitizing medical students who are the doctors of tomorrow. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | FETUS | SEX PREFERENCE | ABORTION | WOMEN'S STATUS | CULTURE | DOWRY | SEX DETERMINATION | CRIME | LEGISLATION | SOCIAL PROBLEMS | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Political Factors | Diseases Document Number: 328513 Notification |
| 19. Title: Sex selection by preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) for nonmedical reasons in contemporary Israeli regulations. Author: Grazi RV; Wolowelsky JB; Krieger DJ Source: Cambridge Quarterly of Healthcare Ethics. 2008 Summer;17(3):293-9. Abstract: We report here on recent developments in Israel on the issue of sex selection for nonmedical reasons by preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). Sex selection for medical reasons (such as in cases of sex-linked genetic diseases) is generally viewed as uncontroversial and legal in European and American law. Its use for nonmedical reasons (like "balancing" the gender ratio in a family) is generally illegal in European countries. In the United States, it is not illegal, although in the opinion of the Ethics Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), it is problematic. This position is undergoing reconsideration, albeit in a limited way. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: ISRAEL | CRITIQUE | SEX PRESELECTION | SEX PREFERENCE | RELIGIOUS ASPECTS | JUDAISM | FAMILY PLANNING POLICY | REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGIES | ETHICS | LEGISLATION | Developed Countries | Middle East | Reproduction | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Religion | Sociocultural Factors | Family Planning | Population Policy | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors Document Number: 328368 |
| 20. Title: Economic, social and spatial dimensions of India's excess child masculinity. Author: Guilmoto CZ Source: Population-E. 2008;63(1):91-118. Abstract: The Indian subcontinent is a region characterized by a large diversity of populations, languages, cultures and faiths. Based on structure of castes whose practices and attitudes are changing, the Indian population is adopting new demographic behaviours whose diffusion and extent can be analysed spatially. In this article, Christophe Z. Guilmoto proposes a spatialized analysis of the recent aggravation of the gender imbalance in the child population, using data from the 2001 census for the 591 districts in India. This approach takes account of the spatial diffusion of behaviour, identifies more clearly the specific effects of the social and economic factors at work and proposes possible interpretations of the phenomenon. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | AREA ANALYSIS | THEORETICAL MODELS | CHILDREN | SEX RATIO | SEX PREFERENCE | SEX DISCRIMINATION | SOCIAL CHANGE | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | GEOGRAPHIC FACTORS | SOCIAL CLASS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Sex Distribution | Sex Factors | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Social Discrimination | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Economic Factors | Socioeconomic Status Document Number: 327937 |
| 21. Title: Association of educational level and child sex ratio in rural and urban India. Author: Inchani LR; Lai D Source: Social Indicators Research. 2008 Mar;86(1):69-81. Abstract: Utilizing data from the Census of India, this study compared child sex ratio in rural and urban regions of India and analyzed whether the child sex ratio was associated with mother's education level. The child sex ratios in the rural and urban regions throughout India were analyzed using the two-sample and paired Student's t-test. Further, the Chi-square test for trend in binomial proportions was used to assess the association between child sex ratios and mother's education levels in rural and urban areas. Analysis of the data showed that there was a significant difference between the child sex ratios in rural areas versus urban areas. In addition, the Chi-square test for trend showed that there was a significant association of the child sex ratio and the educational levels of their mothers. This trend occurred in both rural and urban areas. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | STATISTICAL STUDIES | AREA ANALYSIS | RURAL AREAS | URBAN AREAS | CHILDREN | SEX RATIO | MOTHERS | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | SEX PREFERENCE | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Studies | Research Methodology | Geographic Factors | Population | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Sex Distribution | Sex Factors | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 324180 |
| 22. Title: The effect of family size and composition on fertility desires, contraceptive adoption, and method choice in South Asia. Author: Jayaraman A; Mishra V; Arnold F Source: Calverton, Maryland, Macro International, MEASURE DHS, 2008 Mar. 26 p. (DHS Working Papers No. 40USAID Contract No. GPO-C-00-03-00002-00) Abstract: We examine the influence of family size and composition on reproductive behavior in three South Asian countries - Nepal, India, and Bangladesh - that are known for strong son preference. Using data from recent Demographic and Health Surveys, we analyze whether the choice of contraceptive method adopted (modern versus traditional; temporary versus permanent) and desire for another child differ by parity and sex composition of surviving children. In addition, for India we pool data for four northern states (Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh) and four southern states (Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu) in order to capture the north-south variation within the country. We also compare West Bengal and Bangladesh to understand how son preference in these culturally similar regions affects fertility desires and contraceptive adoption. The effects of parity and sex composition on fertility desire and contraceptive use are estimated using binary and multinomial logistic regression after controlling for key socioeconomic factors, including education, work status, media exposure, household wealth status, woman's participation in household decision-making, and urban/rural residence. We find that, independent of socioeconomic factors, women with more sons have a lower desire to have another child and are more likely to use contraception than those with more daughters. These effects are more prominent in Nepal and India than in Bangladesh. Within India, the effects are stronger in north India than in south India or West Bengal. However, considerable proportions of women also express a desire for at least one daughter, especially in Bangladesh after having a son. There is a clear shift towards permanent methods of contraception with an increase in the number of sons, but we find no systematic pattern in the use of traditional methods by parity or sex composition of children. We conclude that son preference remains widespread in all three countries, and it has a major influence on reproductive behavior. The preference for boys is embedded in the cultural and traditional beliefs of these countries. Reducing such preference would require a change in social norms and attitudes of the people and an improvement of the status of women within the household. (author's) Language: English Keywords: NEPAL | INDIA | BANGLADESH | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | FAMILY SIZE, DESIRED | FAMILY AND HOUSEHOLD | FERTILITY PREFERENCES | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE DETERMINANTS | CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS CHOSEN | SEX PREFERENCE | SONS | SEX DISCRIMINATION | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Size | Family Characteristics | Sociocultural Factors | Fertility | Contraceptive Usage | Contraception | Family Planning | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Family Relationships | Social Discrimination | Social Problems Document Number: 326390 |
| 23. Title: Disappearing daughters. Author: Kelly A Source: London, United Kingdom, ActionAid, [2008]. 27 p. Abstract: India's daughters are disappearing. New research by ActionAid and the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) shows that the number of girls born and surviving in northern India compared to boys falls far short of normal expectations, and continues to slide. In a country with a long history of discrimination against women, the preference for sons over daughters has led to the number of girls under the age of six hitting an all-time low. The introduction of sex-detection ultrasound technology, coupled with the long-term problem of the neglect of girls, means that millions of women are now 'missing' in India. ActionAid and IDRC's research reveals that, despite policies to address girls' rights and public information campaigns, sex-selective abortion and neglect are on the increase. In four of the five sites surveyed, the proportion of girls to boys has declined even further since 2001. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | TECHNICAL REPORT | SEX PREFERENCE | CHILD, FEMALE | ULTRASONICS | ABORTION | SEX RATIO | FAMILY SIZE | FERTILITY PREFERENCES | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Child | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Sex Distribution | Sex Factors | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Fertility | Population Dynamics Document Number: 327602 Notification |
| 24. Title: Economics, cultural transmission, and the dynamics of the sex ratio at birth in China. Author: Lipatov M; Li S; Feldman MW Source: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. 2008 Dec 9;105(49):19171-6. Abstract: In rural China, the ratio of newborn boys to newborn girls [sex ratio at birth (SRB)] has been rising for several decades, to values significantly above its biological norm. This trend has a number of alarming societal consequences, and has attracted the attention of scholars and politicians. The root of the problem lies in a 2,500-year-old culture of son preference. This culture is intricately linked with the economic reality of each couple's life, so that there are financial and psychological repercussions to parents who have no sons. To bring greater clarity and understanding to this issue, we present a quantitative framework that describes the interaction between economics and cultural transmission. We start with an explicit mechanism by which economic incentives can change cultural beliefs of a given individual, and go on to include a mechanism of cultural inheritance from generation to generation. We then show how economic conditions can affect the dynamics of cultural change in an entire society, and may lead to a decrease in the country's sex ratio at birth. Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | SONS | SEX RATIO | CULTURE | SEX PREFERENCE | ECONOMICS | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Sex Distribution | Sex Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Social Sciences | Science Document Number: 329780 |
| 25. Title: Understanding the effects of siblings on child mortality: Evidence from India. Author: Makepeace G; Pal S Source: Journal of Population Economics. 2008 Oct;21(4):877-902. Abstract: Given the intrinsically sequential nature of childbirth, timing of a child's birth has consequences not only for itself but also for its older and younger siblings. The paper argues that prior spacing and posterior spacing between consecutive siblings are thus important measures of intensity of sibling competition for limited parental resources. While the available estimates of child mortality tend to ignore the endogeneity of sibling composition, we use a correlated recursive model of prior and posterior spacing and child mortality to correct it. There is evidence that uncorrected estimates under-estimate the effects of prior and posterior spacing on child mortality. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | HEALTH SURVEYS | THEORETICAL MODELS | CORRELATION STUDIES | CHILD MORTALITY | BIRTH SPACING | BIRTH INTERVALS | TIME FACTORS | SIBLINGS | SEX PREFERENCE | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Health | Research Methodology | Statistical Studies | Studies | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Planning | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 327940 |
| 26. Peer Reviewed Title: Holding the line: Family responses to pregnancy and the desire for a child in the context of HIV in Vietnam. Author: Oosterhoff P; Nguyen Thu Anh; Ngo Thuy Hanh; Pham Ngoc Yen; Wright P Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2008 May;10(4):403-416. Abstract: Health services around the world offer many guidelines for HIV-positive women who are pregnant or who want to become pregnant, and for women with HIV infected partners. These guidelines are addressed to women and, increasingly, also to men, but pay little or no attention to the role of other members of the family in fertility decisions. This study looked at factors influencing decisions about fertility in families with an HIV-positive member. In Vietnam, the whole family takes a crucial role in deciding whether a woman should become pregnant and whether she will keep her child. This decision is taken in the context not only of the close family but also under the influence of ancestors and the weight given to them within the culture. Key in this regard is the need for parents and grandparents to have male offspring. Health workers share these ideas about preferred family composition and support men and women in the quest for male offspring. Policies and guidelines should take into account these additional family factors and goals as a basis for the design of appropriate programmes to reduce HIV transmission. (author's) Language: English Keywords: VIETNAM | RESEARCH REPORT | INTERVIEWS | PREGNANT WOMEN | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | EXTENDED FAMILY | REPRODUCTIVE BEHAVIOR | DECISION MAKING | FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS | CULTURE | FAMILY CHARACTERISTICS | SEX PREFERENCE | Developing Countries | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Behavior | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors Document Number: 326951 |
| 27. Title: Gender inequality: Is the national population policy's objective of two child norm heading the correct way? Author: Patrikar SR; Bhalwar R; Datta A; Basannar DR Source: Medical Journal Armed Forces India. 2008 Jul;64(3):221-223. Abstract: Male preference is a well known phenomena world wide from ancient ages. A descriptive study was carried out to assess the attitude of women towards birth of son, use of contraception methods and sex determination methods in rural village Kasurdi in Pune district. Univariate analysis was carried out by considering each factor determining sex preference separately as well as using a Logistic Regression Model. Adequacy of fit of the model has also been tested. Out of 110 respondents interviewed, 62.7% felt that male child is necessary in the family. Univariate analysis revealed that sex of first child, concern undergone for second pregnancy with regards to sex of the child, number of children in family and type of family were significant factors contributing to the son preference. The analysis under the logistic regression model revealed that sex of the first child and concern undergone in second pregnancy with respect to the sex of the second child are the most dominating and significant factors in the causation of son preference. The difference between family sizes when compared with the sex of first child was statistically significant signifying that if the first child is a male then it hardly matters whether the second child is male or female, but if the sex of first child is female then the families land up with bigger family size. On an average most of the respondents favour two children with an equal share of male and female children. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | INTERVIEWS | STATISTICAL REGRESSION | WOMEN | SEX PREFERENCE | CHILD, MALE | FAMILY SIZE | POPULATION POLICY | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Data Analysis | Demographic Factors | Population | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Child | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors Document Number: 327586 |
| 28. Peer Reviewed Title: Analysis of socio-political and health practices influencing sex ratio at birth in Viet Nam. Author: Pham BN; Hall W; Hill PS; Rao C Source: Reproductive Health Matters. 2008 Nov;16(32):176-84. Abstract: Viet Nam has experienced rapid social change over the last decade, with a remarkable decline in fertility to just below replacement level. The combination of fertility decline, son preference, antenatal sex determination using ultrasound and sex selective abortion are key factors driving increased sex ratios at birth in favour of boys in some Asian countries. Whether or not this is taking place in Viet Nam as well is the subject of heightened debate. In this paper, we analyse the nature and determinants of sex ratio at birth in Viet Nam, including a small family size norm, recent reinforcement by the Government of the "one-to-two child" family policy, traditional son preference, easy access to antenatal ultrasound screening and legal abortion, and an increase in the proportion of one-child families. In order to prevent an increased sex ratio at birth in Viet Nam, we argue for the relaxation of the one-to-two child family policy and a return to the policy of "small family size" as determined by families, in tandem with a comprehensive approach to promoting the value of women and girls in society, countering traditional gender roles, and raising public awareness of the negative social consequences of a high sex ratio at birth. Language: English Keywords: VIETNAM | RECOMMENDATIONS | SONS | SEX RATIO | SEX PREFERENCE | ANTINATALIST POLICY | FAMILY SIZE | SEX DETERMINATION | ULTRASONICS | SEX PRESELECTION | ABORTION | LEGISLATION | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Sex Distribution | Sex Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Population Policy | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Reproductive Technologies | Reproduction | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning Document Number: 342199 Notification |
| 29. Peer Reviewed Title: Consistency and predictive ability of fertility preference indicators: longitudinal evidence from rural India. Author: Roy TK; Sinha RK; Koenig M; Mohanty SK; Patel SK Source: International Family Planning Perspectives. 2008 Sep;34(3):138-145. Abstract: Ideal family size and desire for an additional child are the two most commonly used fertility preference indicators. However, little is known about the consistency over time of responses to each measure, the consistency between the two indicators or the predictive value of these indicators in India. METHOD: Longitudinal data from the 1998-1999 National Family Health Survey and a follow-up survey conducted four years later were analyzed to determine the consistency of responses to the two fertility preference indicators (both over time and between indicators) and to determine whether baseline responses were associated with subsequent fertility, unwanted births and contraceptive use. RESULTS: Responses on the measure of ideal family size were consistent at the two time points for 53% of nonsterilized women. Eighty-two percent of women who explicitly said in 1998 that they did not desire more children responded identically in 2002, although about half of these women had given birth in the intervening period. The indicators were associated with each other: Among women with at least one son, 79% of those who had attained or surpassed their ideal family size said they wanted to stop childbearing, compared with 18% of those who had not. Both indicators predicted future fertility, unwanted births and contraceptive use, particularly among women who had a son. CONCLUSION: Both indicators are useful in understanding future fertility behavior. As the prevalence of son preference declines in India, the predictive ability of the indicators is likely to improve. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | LONGITUDINAL STUDIES | EVALUATION INDEXES | HEALTH SURVEYS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | FERTILITY PREFERENCES | FAMILY SIZE, IDEAL | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE DETERMINANTS | PREGNANCY, UNWANTED | SEX PREFERENCE | FERTILITY DETERMINANTS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Studies | Research Methodology | Quantitative Evaluation | Evaluation | Health | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Size | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Contraceptive Usage | Contraception | Family Planning | Reproductive Behavior | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 322521 |
| 30. Peer Reviewed Title: Women's reproductive autonomy and barriers to contraceptive use in Pakistan. Author: Saleem A; Pasha GR Source: European Journal of Contraception and Reproductive Health Care. 2008 Mar;13(1):83-89. Abstract: The objective was to determine through the log-linear model analysis technique the impact of women's reproductive autonomy, spouses' educational background and other factors on the use of contraception in Pakistan. Data from the Pakistan Reproductive Health and Family Planning Survey 2000 were used. In this survey a national sample of married women aged 15-49 years (n = 6579) were interviewed. A number of socio-economic, socio-demographic and women's reproductive autonomy variables were taken for the log-linear model fitting and analysis, in order to examine the impact of women's reproductive autonomy on contraceptive use and the factors affecting this latter. On the basis of partial and marginal association tests, two hierarchical log-linear models were selected. The first one concerned women's reproductive autonomy and contraceptive use, the second one analysed factors affecting contraceptive use. Standardized values of the model's parameter estimates showed that women's reproductive autonomy was significantly associated with husband-wife education attainment when they were using contraception. In the second model, contraceptive use was strongly associated with women's education, husband's desire for more children, sex preference for the next child and number of living children. An improved husband-wife educational level results in greater reproductive autonomy of the women and an increased use of contraception. The husband's desire for more children, a preference for the sex of the next child, and the woman's poor education attainment level are the main barriers to contraceptive use. (author's) Language: English Keywords: PAKISTAN | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | CORRELATION OF DATA | THEORETICAL MODELS | WOMEN | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | SEX PREFERENCE | FAMILY SIZE, DESIRED | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Correlation Studies | Statistical Studies | Demographic Factors | Population | Contraception | Family Planning | Human Rights | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Family Size | Family Characteristics | Family and Household Document Number: 324167 |
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