Volume 18 - Article 20 | Pages 569–610  

On the structural value of children and its implication on intended fertility in Bulgaria

By Christoph Bühler

Abstract

Personal networks are receiving increasing recognition as structural determinants of fertility. However, the network perspective also helps to explain personal motivations for having children. Using theories of interpersonal exchange, social capital, and the value of children, it is argued in this article that children can substantively improve their parents’ social networks. Individuals perceive this potential advantageous development as a structural benefit and consider this value in their reproductive decisions. This argument is empirically explored with data from Bulgaria, collected in 2002. The results document the presence of structural evaluations among subjectively perceived child-related benefits. Moreover, structural evaluations matter for the reproductive decision-making of Bulgarian citizens. Women’s fertility intentions are supported by the prospect that a child will bring their parents and relatives closer or will improve their security at old age. Males’ intentions are closely associated with the expectation that a child will provide support when they are old.

Author’s Affiliation

• Christoph Bühler - Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Universität Hannover, Germany EMAIL

Other articles by the same author/authors in Demographic Research

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Generations and Gender Survey (GGS): Towards a better understanding of relationships and processes in the life course
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Talking about AIDS: The influence of communication networks on individual risk perceptions of HIV/AIDS infection and favored protective behaviors in South Nyanza District, Kenya
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