Title: Macro-effects of changes in household preferences for children: simulated history and future time paths.

POPLINE Document Number: 208288

Author(s):

Denton FT
Spencer BG

Source citation:

JOURNAL OF POPULATION ECONOMICS, 1989 Nov;2(3):165-88.

Abstract:

The basic ideas underlying the analysis in this paper are that family size can be viewed as an economic life cycle decision and that there are decision trade-offs among fertility, consumption, and leisure. A micro-model of life cycle choice is developed and embedded in an economic-demographic macro-model. The macro-model is then used in a series of computer experiments to assess the effects on the population and the economy of changes in household preferences for children. The experiments include factual and counterfactual simulations of Canadian historical demographic experience and simulations of alternative future scenarios. The analysis and conclusions have general relevance for countries that have been through a fertility boom-and-bust sequence. (author's)

Keywords:

Canada
Family Size, Desired
Life Cycle
Mathematical Model
Demographic Analysis
Macroeconomic Factors
Fertility
Total Fertility Rate
Changes
North America, Northern
Americas
Developed Countries
Family Size
Family Characteristics
Family and Household
Family Research
Models, Theoretical
Research Methodology
Economic Factors
Population Dynamics
Demographic Factors
Population
Fertility Rate
Birth Rate
Fertility Measurements
Social Change