Village characteristics and reproductive behaviour
Casterline, J.B.; Eid, I.
Egypt demographic responses to modernisation: 575-607
1988
Document Number: 363846
In 1980, as part of the Egyptian Fertility Survey, a community survey was conducted in rural areas in order to collect data encompassing demographic, social and economic characteristics of Egyptian villages. Drawing upon these data, an examination is undertaken of the relationship between village characteristics and reproductive behaviour. Variables examined in the analysis include: level of urbanization and isolation of the village; socioeconomic development; social structure; level of infant mortality; and accessibility of medical care. The analysis reveals that fertility aspirations are powerfully associated with all these village factors. These effects are substantial in size, often equalling the effects of the respondents' educational attainment. However, reliance on these largely socioeconomic factors is not sufficient if population policy goals are to be achieved. A combination of village development and provision of family planning services is suggested as an effective population programme for rural areas.