A couple analysis of micro-level supply/demand factors in fertility regulation

Demographic research in developing countries has traditionally neglected the role of male input into reproductive decision making. This has contributed significantly to the general inability to resolve the fertility problem in sub-Saharan Africa. The principal aim of this study is to apply a joint- or couple-model to the analysis of one such population problem in order to illustrate the potential avenues that emerge when the input of male spouses is considered. The 1988 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey is used to examine the need for supply- and demand-side policy in achieving fertility declines. The data indicate that, although there is some evidence of the benefit of family planning programs, it appears that there is much room for further success. Also, there is a strong indication that the demand side of the fertility equation must be addressed more, by tackling the issue of individual motivations, particularly of males, for childbearing.