How the division of labour affect fertility intentions: a mixed method approach

In this paper we combine statistical analysis of a recent national sample in Italy (FSS 2003) with analysis of our own large primary data set examined through text-based qualitative methods. Our objective in this mixed methods analysis is to better understand the spectrum of the couple’s role-set distributions in Italy and its implications for contemporary gender relationships and family building patterns. In order to identify the different role-set typologies, we calculated and combined two Partner’s Work Gap Indicators: one for domestic work and one for paid labor. Our quantitative analysis show that egalitarian role-sets and role-sets unbalanced against man are positively associated with woman’s fertility intentions. Our qualitative insight reconsiders the same role-set categories of quantitative analysis, trying to answer to several questions. How does partners’ interaction determine their role-set? What impact does culture have (super-woman myth, familistic and gender attitudes)? How does a role-set shape fertility intentions and vice-versa?