Quantifying and Evaluating Male Child Preference in Pakistan

ABSTRACT Preference for male over female children is entrenched in many Asian and African countries. This can result in premature mortality of female babies, an increase in the number of young unmarried males, an excalation in violence, antisocial behavior and frustration due to a lack of females. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of desire for male children among the general population of parents in Pakistan. A cross-sectional study was conducted at a Karachi public sector hospital with 300 participants selected through convenience sampling. Data was analyzed using statistical software and the chi-square test and logistic regression was used to determine the outcome variable and associated risk factors. Of the 300 participants, 53.3 percent of study participants were in the age group of 18–30 years. The preference for male and female children was 37.5 percent and 23.9 percent, respectively. The overall son preference index was 1.94; showing a strong preference toward sons. After adjustment of covariates, the age group of 18–30 years and those of lower and middle socioeconomic class significantly preferred male over female children. Participants in general showed interest in both male and female children, but there was a stronger desire for a male child, showing a deeply rooted cultural mindset. The approach of parents towards females should be changed in order to eliminate existing omnipresent discrimination against female children. Keywords: Male child prevalence, Male child desire, Female child, inequality.