Modernization Value Change and Fertility in the Soviet Union

This study is concerned with the complex linkages among modernization value change demographic change and public policy in the USSR. It has two objectives. First it explores the relationship between value change and fertility. Second it examines the impact of public policies both intended and unintended on family values and fertility The first part of the book examines the impact of modernization and value change on fertility. In 1 a theoretical framework for analysis of the Soviet fertility transition is presented the hypotheses to be tested are described previous work is reviewed and the data sources are discussed. The relevant data are analyzed in the next two chapters. Chapter 2 explores patterns of social and demographic modernization since the turn of the century. Hypotheses involving linkages between modernization the erosion of traditional family values and natality are tested for the European areas of the USSR. In 3 the focus is on explaining current fertility differentials between nationality groups and regions. The second part considers how public policy has affected family values and fertility. The main focus of 4 is on the effects of socioeconomic development on traditional family values in the south of the USSR. 5 surveys the consequences of Soviet demographic policy and 6 presents a predictive model of Soviet fertility trends. Particular attention is paid to differences among the various peoples and regions constituting the USSR. (EXCERPT)