Swedish men’s fertility intentions and behaviours

Gayle Kaufman, Davidson College
Livia Olah, Stockholm University

This study examines three aspects of men’s reproduction – reproductive attitudes, fertility intentions, and fertility outcomes. We seek to contribute to research that so far has mainly addressed low levels of fertility by focusing on women’s employment and delayed childbearing. Sweden provides a unique context because of its explicit policies aimed at promoting gender equality in both work and family realms. We analyze longitudinal data from the Swedish Young Adult Panel Study (YAPS), waves 2003 and 2009. We use four attitudinal measures (fertility readiness; importance of non-family goals; importance of children; gender role attitudes), and study their influence on Swedish men’s fertility intentions and behaviour. Having a sufficient income to support a child, suitable housing, and high personal importance of children decreases men’s likelihood of delayed fertility intentions. Having a sufficient income also increases the likelihood of actual fertility within the six-year time period.