| Is son preference pervasive in India? |
| Authors: |
Bharati, Susmita; Shome, Suparna; Pal, Manoranjan; Chaudhury, Prabir; Bharati, Premananda |
| Source: |
Journal of Gender Studies, Sep2011, Vol. 20 Issue 3, p291-298, 8p, DOI: 10.1080/09589236.2011.593328 |
| Topic(s): |
Gender
Son preference
|
| Country: |
Asia
India
|
| Published: |
SEP 2011 |
| Abstract: |
Abstract:
Indian women usually crave at least one son and will continue to try for a son even if they have five or more daughters. The spatial variation of women's preference for sons has been studied in this paper. We have also investigated the effect of socio-economic and socio-cultural variables on son preference through use of the National Family Health Survey data of 2005–2006. The study is based on 81,844 reproductive-aged women (15–49 years old) from all states in India. The Central Zone of India has the highest percentage of son preference while the South Zone has the least. Son preference, which is very strong among Indian women, is mainly correlated with lack of education and socio-religious constraints. It is also seen more in families with an agro-based economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
|