Preferences for the sex of children and their influence on reproductive behaviour

This report draws on World Fertility Survey (WFS) data from 28 developing countries to analyze preferences for the sex of children and the relationship between family composition and reproductive behavior. Respondents were questioned on their preference for the sex of the next child personal desire to stop childbearing current use of contraception and recent fertility. A stated preference for sons is far from universal in these countries and there tends to be a desire for at least 1 daughter. Strong son preference was noted in Pakistan Nepal Bangladesh Korea Syria and Jordan. Venezuela and Jamaica exhibited a preference for daughters. 8 countries showed moderate son preference and the others indicated no preference. Despite the very strong son preference in the…