Kavas and Thornton (2025) have conducted a groundbreaking study that sheds light on the nuanced and often overlooked factors influencing Turkish parents’ intentions regarding childbearing. Their research predominantly centers around the concept of ‘developmental idealism,’ which encapsulates a set of beliefs linking development, modernization, and demographic trends. This ideology has increasingly permeated various aspects of Turkish society, shaping how individuals view family size, child-rearing, and ultimately, their reproductive choices.
At the core of developmental idealism is the notion that development is inherently associated with certain values and practices, which include lower fertility rates and smaller family units. This ideology posits that as societies modernize and develop economically, cultural shifts occur that often prioritize individualism over collectivism. In Turkey, where rapid urbanization and economic changes have significantly altered social norms, this ideology plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions of childbearing.
The researchers adopted a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from surveys and qualitative insights from interviews to capture the multifaceted nature of parental intentions. Their analysis revealed that Turkish parents are experiencing a paradigm shift in how they view family size. Many expressed a desire for fewer children, largely influenced by aspirations for economic stability and improved quality of life for each child. Such attitudes reflect a broader global trend towards smaller family sizes, echoing similar findings in other developing nations undergoing modernization.
Importantly, the study highlights how developmental idealism intersects with traditional values in Turkish society. While parents are increasingly influenced by modern ideals emphasizing the importance of education and personal achievement, many still hold deep-seated beliefs rooted in tradition. For instance, in more rural or conservative areas, larger families are often preferred, driven by the perception that many children are needed for support in old age. Kavas and Thornton illustrate the tension that exists between these evolving cultural narratives and longstanding customs.
Moreover, the researchers emphasize the impact of socio-economic factors on parents’ reproductive intentions. Economic hardships, particularly in urban settings, have led many to reconsider their family planning strategies. The rising cost of living, educational expenses, and the desire to provide better opportunities for children are powerful determinants influencing decisions around childbearing. In this context, developmental idealism serves as a double-edged sword; while it promotes the notion of family limitation as a means to achieve higher living standards, it can also generate anxiety over financial capabilities and responsibilities.
A crucial aspect of their findings pertains to gender roles and expectations surrounding parenthood in Turkey. The study sheds light on how the expectations of fathers and mothers differ significantly. Many women express a desire for smaller families to balance their career aspirations with child-rearing responsibilities. Conversely, many men remain influenced by traditional expectations that associate masculinity with fatherhood, leading to conflicts in family planning conversations. This discord reveals how developmental idealism is not only about economic transformation but also involves a grappling with the evolving gender dynamics that accompany societal change.
Kavas and Thornton’s exploration of communication within families emerges as a key element in understanding parental intentions. Open dialogues about childbearing choices, influenced by the principles of developmental idealism, foster an environment where both partners can express their views and jointly navigate the complexities of parenthood in contemporary Turkey. As parents increasingly prioritize education and career development for their children, the importance of shared decision-making in family planning becomes increasingly paramount.
The implications of this research extend beyond the Turkish context, prompting a broader dialogue about how developmental ideals shape reproductive strategies worldwide. As many nations face similar challenges of modernization, economic pressure, and cultural shifts, the findings underscore the need for policies that support families in navigating these changes. Governments and organizations must consider the evolving landscape of family planning, ensuring adequate resources and support systems are in place for prospective parents.
Furthermore, the study’s significance lies in its potential to influence future research directions. By providing a nuanced understanding of how developmental idealism intersects with local contexts, Kavas and Thornton pave the way for scholars examining demographic transitions in various sociocultural settings. Understanding the interplay of tradition and modernity has never been more crucial, especially as societies grapple with the implications of declining birth rates and shifting family structures.
In conclusion, Kavas and Thornton’s work fundamentally enriches the discourse surrounding childbearing intentions among Turkish parents, drawing connections between developmental idealism and the multifaceted realities individuals face. Their findings highlight the delicate balance between aspirations for modernity and the anchoring of cultural traditions, offering valuable insights into the complexities of family planning decisions. As societal norms continue to evolve, ongoing research in this area will be essential to understanding and addressing the needs of families around the world.
The implications of Kavas and Thornton’s findings may very well extend to policy changes aimed at supporting families in their childbearing choices. Fertility incentives, educational support, and flexible work arrangements could be vital in empowering parents to make informed decisions that align with both their aspirations and socio-economic realities.
Ultimately, as Turkey grapples with the intersection of tradition, modernity, and individual choice in family planning, Kavas and Thornton’s research provides a timely and significant contribution. It challenges us to reflect on the broader implications of developmental idealism and consider how it shapes not only Turkish society but also the dynamics of family life across the globe.
Subject of Research: The influence of developmental idealism on Turkish parents’ childbearing intentions.
Article Title: The influence of developmental idealism on Turkish parents’ intention to continue childbearing.
Article References:
Kavas, S., Thornton, A. The influence of developmental idealism on Turkish parents’ intention to continue childbearing.
J Pop Research 42, 17 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12546-025-09364-3
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: 10.1007/s12546-025-09364-3
Keywords: Developmental idealism, childbearing intentions, Turkish parents, socio-economic factors, family planning.
