Transformation of Reproduction Norms: Delay and Gender Dynamics in Parenthood

In the analysis of parents’ roles during the Second Demographic Transition (SDT) our stance draws on the social norms’ approach. Data from a qualitative study (15 focus group discussions, 87 participants) shows that from a normative view there are two main domains of decision-making concerning reproduction: (1) delays to reproduction driven by new norms stressing that a family should only be established once a state of economic independence and self-actualisation has been reached, and (2) gender dynamics – a push-pull dilemma, in which women tend to pull men into the sphere that has traditionally been the domain of women, and simultaneously try to maintain their leading position in the household, thus reinforcing the norm of the irreplaceable mother. These findings are tested in the broader context of psycho-social variables in a quantitative survey (representative national sample, N=1400).