Preference for sex of child among primiparous women

J Psychol. 1985 Nov;119(6):541-7. doi: 10.1080/00223980.1985.9915461.

Abstract

Primiparous American women (N = 140) were questioned during their third trimester concerning their choice of sex of offspring and their willingness to use sex preselection techniques (if available). Eighty-two women expressed no preference for sex of offspring; of the remaining 58, 33 chose girls and 25 chose boys. Of the 26 women who indicated they would have used preselection technology, 13 chose boys and 13 chose girls. Fifty-three percent of the sample indicated they would not have used preselection techniques; 29% were undecided. These results were at variance with earlier studies that indicated a consistent choice of male firstborns, especially in nonpregnant samples. The discrepancy is discussed in terms of a move from boy preference to no preference and a gradual weakening of societal bias against women.

MeSH terms

  • Attitude*
  • Female
  • Genetic Engineering*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Pregnancy*
  • Sex Preselection*
  • Women's Rights