A Structure of Childbearing Motivation

Introduction Historically, childlessness is not a new phenomenon but its demographic context and nature has changed (Rowland 2007). Currently, childlessness is related not only to being infertile or single, but more and more often it results from various external obstacles (e.g., financial, work-related) or is associated with a shift in people’s attitudes and life priorities (Hagestad and Call 2007; Heaton et al. 1999). Consequently, the classic distinction between “involuntary” (related to biological limitations) and “voluntary” childlessness became obsolete. Instead, it has been suggested to distinguish between “child-less” and “child-free” individuals (Basten 2009; Tanturri and Mencarini 2008) or between childlessness that is congruent or incongruent with individual attitudes (Connidis and McMullin 1993; Koropeckyj-Cox 2002). The attitudes towards childbearing and motivation for parenthood are focal in these typologies. Unfortunately, while many studies examine obstacles that prevent young couples from having offspring, childbearing motivation is much less investigated. This study contributes to filling this gap in our knowledge. We situate our research in the theoretical framework, developed by Warren Miller (1994, 1995, 2011a, 2011b). According to this model, childbearing desire – that precedes reproductive intention and consequent behavior – is shaped by motivational traits or motives (Trait-DesireIntention-Behavior model). The motivational traits are individual dispositions to react favorably or unfavorably to various aspects of parenthood. The Childbearing Questionnaire, designed by Warren Miller (1995) allows for measuring the strength of childbearing motivation and for investigating its dimensions. It provides detailed information on what aspects of having children are evaluated positively or negatively by an individual. Which aspects are mostly desired or feared of. In this study we use the Polish version of the Childbearing Questionnaire to identify key positive and negative motives for having offspring. We examine what motives are crucial for wanting to have a child (a desire) and for a precise plan to become a parent in the near future (an intention).