Investigated is the idea that measures of preferred family size can elicit accurate aggregate fertility predictions but inaccurate individual fertility predictions, because the children's sex composition is not considered. Suggestions are given for developing fertility attitude measures. (Author/SA)

The presence or absence of differences between husbands and wives in patterns of relationship between economic variables and desired family size may indicate: (a) whether conjugal roles condition the effects of economic factors on the demand for children; and (b) the extent to which assumptions in economic models of fertility are supported.…

In a study in Puerto Rico, Hill, Stycos, and Back (1959) reported that the egalitarian, "modern" family facilitated contraceptive use in societies undergoing rapid social change. An examination of data from Turkey suggests that their "model" does not explain very much of the variation in contraceptive behavior in Turkey. (Author)

New developments in the prediction and treatment of genetic diseases are presented. Genetic counseling and the role of the counselor, and rights of individuals to reproduce versus societal impact of genetic disorders, are discussed. (RW)

Analyzed college students' (N=366) attitudes regarding males' involvement in abortion decisions. Results indicate that both men and women thought that men should be involved. Men indicated a desire for more responsibility in such decisions than women thought they should have. Women did not view abortion as strictly a women's issue. (RJM)

Five cases of fetal abuse by mothers suffering from depression are discussed. Four of the women had unplanned pregnancies and had considered termination of the pregnancy. Other factors associated with fetal abuse include pregnancy denial, pregnancy ambivalence, previous postpartum depression, and difficulties in relationships. Vigilance for…

This article looks into the reasons behind Kenya's rapidly declining fertility rates over the last decade. Examines such factors as economic conditions, Westernization, contraceptive use, and formal education programs. (LZ)

Examines ethnic differences in rates of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in female adolescents (N=205) receiving care at two family-planning clinics; new infection and reinfection rates were also examined. Black teens had a higher rate of past STDs than Hispanics or Whites; however, there were no differences in rates at the time of the clinic…

The effect of marriage type (polygamy vs. monogamy) on reproductive decisions is investigated using comparative data from the 1988, 1989, and 1993 Demographic and Health Surveys of Ghana and Kenya. Multivariate analysis is used. Inconclusive results are discussed with a focus on future research directions. (Author/EMK)

Comparisions of family planning sessions in Kenya found distinct gender differences in reasons for visiting the clinics and communication styles of both the clients and the counselors. These communication patterns may be a result of Kenyan gender roles and men's and women's different reasons for seeking family planning services. Implications of…

China's one-child policy is now 25 years of age--the officially sanctioned age for marriage by men in the People's Republic of China. A significant proportion of those now about to enter their child-bearing years are themselves the product of the first generation of one-child homes. This article reviews the history of the single-child policy, with…

This document provides a committee report, together with minority views, on the Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention, Care, and Research Grants Act of 1989 (S. 120), as returned to the Senate by the Committee on Labor and Human Resources with a substituting amendment and recommendation for passage. The bill amends the Public Health Service Act to…

A description is provided of "Principles of Family Planning," a course designed for graduate nursing students or practicing nurses seeking continuing education credit. The first sections of the course description provide a rationale for the course, information on its curricular placement, scheduling information, and statements of long-range and…

Africa's population is now 630 million, and it is growing faster than any other region in the world. But while Africa's population grows by 3.1 percent annually, the continent's food supply increases by only 1.1 percent per year. Throughout the 1980s more and more African governments have agreed that lasting development is possible only if…

Recent trends in rates of sexually transmitted diseases, AIDS, and teen pregnancies have led to a new emphasis on male involvement in family planning programs. Little research data exists on specific opinions, attitudes and needs of young males regarding the array of services available. This paper describes: (1) how market research (including…