Is There a Gap Between Ideal and Intended Fertility Among Young Adults in Hong Kong?
HKUST IEMS Thought Leadership Brief No. 95
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Hong Kong has one of the lowest fertility rates globally, yet limited research has examined the fertility ideals and intentions of its young people. While many young men and women ideally prefer to have two children, their actual fertility intentions are much lower, with a significant proportion of men and even more women intending not to have any children. Young people in Hong Kong have not given up on childbearing. However, they face significant barriers to achieving them and thereby resign to very small family sizes. This study underscores the need for the government to investigate these barriers to fertility intentions and support individuals in achieving their reproductive aspirations.
About the author
Arya Rachel Thomas is a post-doctoral fellow in the Division of Social Science at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.
Stuart Gietel-Basten is a Professor of Social Science and Public Policy at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. He is also the Associate Dean (Research) of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Associate Director of the Center for Aging Science and Associate Director of Leadership and Public Policy Executive Education.
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