Fertility preferences in China in the twenty-first century

Abstract There is continuing debate on how low China’s fertility has reached and whether China fallen into the “low trap”. This paper addresses this by revisiting trends in preferences past decades based a meta review. Moreover, analysis contrasts distinct measurements of to capture different aspects reproductive decision-making. papers reviews 152 studies resulting 137 estimates for mean preferred number children, 104 proportions numbers children 66 second-child preferences. We found that after long-time decline last century, average family size remained at level but started increase slowly since 2001. upturn was observed all three types preferences: ideal, desired, planned size. The results also indicate strong two-child preference (more than 50% respondents) China, although 30% people prefer one child only small fraction indicating an ideal or more children. Results people’s second were less consistent. concluded unlikely rapidly even when government adopts relaxed planning policy. Because upward trend very minimal economic constraints will prevent many realise their