Perceived Economic Uncertainty and Fertility Intentions in Couples: A Dyadic Extension of the Theory of Planned Behaviour

Abstract

By adopting a dyadic extension of the Theory of Planned Behavior (Ajzen, 1991), this study examined whether perceived economic uncertainty afects fertility intentions. Three-hundred thirty one heterosexual couples living in Italy participated in a randomized between-group experimental study, in which we manipulated perceived economic uncertainty (low vs. high vs. control). The participants subsequently completed a questionnaire measuring their attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and fertility intentions. We employed Structural Equation Modelling in estimating the Actor–Partner Interdependence Model. The model showed a good ft to the data. Women’s attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control were infuenced by the high economic uncertain scenario, whereas among men these variables were afected only by the positive economic scenario. Attitudes and perceived behavioral control were signifcant predictors of fertility intentions for both sexes. Signifcant partner efects were observed as well. These fndings suggest that fertility plans should be examined by adopting a dyadic perspective, as individuals’ intentions are afected not only by their own beliefs, but also by those of their partners.

Perceived Economic Uncertainty and Fertility Intentions in Couples: A Dyadic Extension of the Theory of Planned Behaviour