Abstract
In this study, we examine the effects of the economic uncertainty of partners on the transition to first birth in Greece before and after the onset of the recent economic crisis. After selecting a sample of childless couples, we applied a random effects model to EU-SILC data for the period 2005–2013. Few studies have focused on the association between economic uncertainty and fertility in Greece considering characteristics of both partners. Even fewer studies have examined panel data in the context of the recent crisis. Our findings show that Greek couples in which both partners are employed, have a high income, or are highly educated are in a more favourable position to have a first child. During the Greek Great Recession, corresponding in our study to the period 2010–2013, the odds of having a first child decreased to half the odds in the 2005–2009 period. The recession period also modified the effect of couples’ characteristics on first childbearing. During the economic crisis, male breadwinner couples were particularly penalized in their transition to have a first child. Surprisingly, couples with at least one temporary worker, usually the woman, were encouraged to have their first child. Implications in terms of gender and social inequality are discussed in the concluding section, and selection processes at play are also discussed.KeywordsFertility, Economic uncertainty, Economic recession, Greece
Highlights
Since the 1960s, developed countries have been characterized by a decline in fertility
In this study, we examine the effects of the economic uncertainty of partners on the transition to first birth in Greece before and after the onset of the recent economic crisis
Starting in the 1960s, we have observed a massive entrance of women in the labour market that is negatively correlated with fertility (Engelhardt et al, 2004; Engelhardt, Prskawetz, 2004; Kögel, 2004)
Summary
Since the 1960s, developed countries have been characterized by a decline in fertility. The consequences are a considerable increase in poverty risk for young adults, late departure from the parental home, late entry (2020) 76:1 into the labour market, and low fertility (Barbieri and Bozzon, 2016; Balbo et al 2013; Goldstein et al, 2009a, b; Billari, 2008; Mills and Blossfeld, 2005; Dalla Zuanna and Micheli, 2004; Kohler et al 2002; Dalla Zuanna, 2001). Since the 1980s, the negative link between female labour force participation and fertility has been weakened in non-Southern European countries. This negative association remains strong in Southern European countries (Kögel, 2004), pointing to limitations in family-friendly policies
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