International variability in childlessness: a descriptive and analytical study

J Fam Issues. 1982 Dec;3(4):473-91. doi: 10.1177/019251382003004004.

Abstract

PIP: This article provides a descriptive account of international trends and variability in marital childlessness. Childlessness data, gathered largely from census questions on number of children ever born, are presented for 65 countries. In discussing trends in childlessness, several procedures for measuring childlessness that are closely analogous to standard fertility measures are introduced. Also set forth is a socioeconomic development model which suggests that involuntary childlessness predominates among developing countries, and voluntary childlessness among developed countries. The findings indicate considerable international variability in marital rates of childlessness.

MeSH terms

  • Birth Rate
  • Demography
  • Developed Countries
  • Developing Countries
  • Family Planning Services*
  • Fertility
  • Parity*
  • Population
  • Population Dynamics
  • Sexual Behavior
  • Socioeconomic Factors