Desired family size and sex of children in a sample of Nigerian population
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Date
2004-08
Authors
Adekoya, K.O.
Ojo, Y.O.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Faculty of Science, Lagos State University, Ojo, Lagos, Nigeria
Abstract
In 2001/2002 academic session, sex ratio data and preferences for family size and for combinations and permutation of children were provided by 644 Nigerian students at the Lagos State University, Ojo, Lagos, Nigeria. For the present and parental generations combined, the secondary sex ratio was estimated to be 101 males : 100 females. In the projected families, preferences for family sizes resulted in an average of 3.86 children per family. The most preferred family consisted of three children - a 2m1f combination in mfm order. Also expressed was a strong preference for permutations of sexes, resulting in a male child as first born followed by an alternation of sexes. A greater preference for male children was indicated by a combined sex ratio of 120 males : 100 females per preferred families. Family size is the critical variable in population growth and factors influencing family size include sex composition. The implication of these as related to health is discussed.
Description
Keywords
Secondary sex ratio, Combination, Permutation, Sex order, Family Size, Natural Selection
Citation
Adekoya, K. O. and Ojo, Y. O. (2004): Desired family size and sex of children in a sample of Nigerian population. The Nigerian Journal of Research and Review in Science. 3: 32-37.