Three Generations of Parents

Abstract

The 1906-1910 cohort of women in the United States had a completed fertility average of 2.3 children, a net reproduction rate 13% below replacement level. 44% of these women had no children or only 1. This low fertility is not attributed to effects of the Depression. Lowering in fertility began in the 1920's and among the better educated classes of the population. The reduction in fertility was achieved with ineffective methods of birth control and, it is believed, widespread use of illegal abortion. The 1931-1935 cohorts had a completed family size of 3.2 children, the highest fertility level since the 1881-1885 cohorts. This high fertility is due largely to 2-4 children families. Fertility rose most among college educated women, and among middle- and upper class women. Reasons for the sharp increase in fertility is the small numbers of young people entering the job market at that time and the preponderance of early childbearing. It is predicted that fertility of the 1956-1960 cohort will be lower than that of the 1931-1935 cohort. It will probably not reach the low levels of the 1906-1910 cohort because there is a widespread desire for at least 1 child. The rate for 3rd and higher birth orders is falling to its lowest level ever. To achieve population replacement level in the United States, effective contraception and liberal provision for abortion are necessary. Social changes which emphasize the small family norm are also necessary.