The Patterns and Determinants of Gender Preferences, in Neka District in Mazandaran Province

This article presents research-based evidence to examine the patterns and determinants associated with childbearing and gender preference. According to the literature review, gender preference has crucial demographic consequences such as high fertility, unwanted pregnancy, and maternal mortality. The literature review also indicates the fact that gender preference still remains as a key determinant of fertility in many societies throughout the world. The results of this analysis are based on a survey conducted in rural and urban areas of Neka in Mazandaran Province of Iran. The survey includes a sample of 743 married women aged 15-49 years old. Generally speaking, the results of this analysis clearly show a tendency towards 'son preference' in our research site. The results also indicate that childbearing tendency is closely associated with age, duration of marriage, current fertility level, and the desired gender composition of children. Finally, such attitudinal determinants as attitudes towards gender roles and child value play significant role in childbearing tendency and gender preference.