Traditional family values as a determinant of the marital and reproductive behaviour of young people: The case of Southern and Eastern Serbia

Abstract

This paper analyses the importance of the family of origin for the marital and reproductive behaviour of young people in Southern and Eastern Serbia. The data were gathered using quantitative techniques: surveys and scaling. The study was carried out in the region of Southern and Eastern Serbia across nine districts. The quota sample numbered 500 respondents, 15 to 34 years of age. The respondents were selected according to district criteria, type of settlement, age, and gender. Based on the selected sampling characteristics, the sample is virtually identical to the existing structure of the selected population. The extent to which the family of origin followed traditional values proved to be a significant determinant of the marital and reproductive behaviour of young people. Young people from more traditional families tend to emulate their attitudes towards marriage and childbearing/parenthood. The results confirm the importance of including socio-cultural determinants in the study of the complex dynamics of the marital and reproductive behaviour of young people.