A study of fertility in Santiago, Chile.

A survey was conducted among nearly 2000 randomly-selected women in Santiago, Chile, in 1959. The survey was designed to study fertility attitudes and practices. The methodological aspects and problems with the study are discussed. With the retrospective data obtained, it was possible to attempt a longitudinal analysis. Chile is a country which has entered its demographic transition, with birth rates declining since 1940. It also has some of the most advanced social legislation in Latin America. Response data from the survey is presented in tabular form. Differential fertility between socioeconomic classes and educational groups was obvious. The ideal number of children mentioned, over 4, is 1 of the highest in any similar survey to date. It is believed that the observed differential fertility results from a differential use of fertility control, including a high level of use of induced abortion. The survey shows a conflict between attitudes which are anti-birth control and contraceptive usage in certain sectors of the population. Conditions favorable to the continued decline of the birth rate are on the increase.