The number of children and family values: are there any cohort differences in Europe?

Abstract

Is there any relationship between family values and the number of children in a family? If yes, does that relationship differ depending on female age cohorts? The article highlights these issues from a cross-country perspective. The empirical basis of the study is the data of the European values study conducted in 47 countries in 2008. The authors conclude that there is a strong relationship between the settings and values and the number of children among younger women rather than older women. Thus, it can be assumed that the fertility behavior of the older generation women is more influenced by economic factors than values and settings. The settings related to sexual liberalization (approval of homosexuality, abortions and divorces) decrease women’s chances to have many children. However, the freedom to make choice about marriage (approval of co-habitation before marriage, pregnancy outside of marriage and single mothers) has a positive relationship with the number of children aged under 28 and a negative relationship for those aged 38-48.