Sex Preference for Children in Liberia: The Influence of Educational Attainment

Jonah Nyenpan, Jr, University of Ghana

This study addresses the challenge of population growth in low-income countries, hindering poverty reduction and universal access to essential services. Focusing on Liberia, the research explores the nexus between reproductive justice, gender equity, educational attainment, sociodemographic factors, and preferences for child sex. Analyzing data from the 2019/2020 Liberia Demographic and Health Survey, encompassing 8,065 females aged 15 to 49, the study unveils a significant correlation between educational attainment and sex preference, with women with secondary and higher education displaying a preference for female children. Additionally, desired family size and sociodemographic factors influence gender preferences, emphasizing the need to promote gender equality and dispel stereotypes for reproductive justice and gender equity in Liberia. This research contributes to understanding how addressing these factors can impact population dynamics and public expenditures per capita.