Rationality of women in fertility decisions: An intergenerational study in rural Indonesian contexts
This study investigates the rationality underlying women’s fertility decisions in rural households, focusing on intergenerational dynamics within a specific Indonesian context. Globally, fertility patterns are shaped by complex socioeconomic, cultural, and individual factors, with women’s rational considerations often overlooked or oversimplified. This research aims to explore how women in Jrengik Village, Sampang Regency, Indonesia, make decisions regarding family size, considering perspectives of consumption, production, and future security. Employing a qualitative approach through in-depth interviews with women from different generations within the same households, the study delves into their perceptions and reasoning. Preliminary findings reveal a nuanced interplay of economic considerations, such as labor availability and old-age support, with non-economic factors, including social prestige, emotional fulfillment, and cultural norms surrounding ideal family size. Notably, generational differences highlight shifts in the salience of these rationales, suggesting an evolving understanding of the “utility” of children. This study contributes to the broader discourse on fertility transitions by emphasizing the subjective rationalities of women, offering valuable insights for population policies that aim to align with community perspectives in rural areas undergoing demographic and socioeconomic transition.
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