gezinswensen

Gezinswensen is a Dutch term that refers to the stated desires or plans of individuals or couples regarding the size and timing of their family. In demography and sociology, it is used to describe the preferred number of children and the preferred timing of births, including intervals between births.

Common components include the intended total number of children, the preferred timing of transitions to parenthood, and the desired spacing between children. Measurements rely on survey questions such as how many children a person would like to have in total and when they would like to have their next child. Responses can also reflect conditional plans, such as postponing childbearing if economic or housing conditions are unfavorable.

Determinants of gezinswensen are diverse and include age and partnership status, education and income, housing and employment prospects, gender norms, religiosity, and experiences with child health and mortality. The wider policy environment—such as access to contraception, parental leave, childcare services, and financial incentives—also shapes these preferences.

Gezinswensen are related to, but not identical with, realized fertility. They help explain anticipated demand for children and inform projections for population growth and social services. They are used by policymakers and researchers to assess potential effects of social and economic changes on family formation and to plan services like childcare, education, and housing.

Limitations include instability of preferences over time and exposure to changing circumstances. Self-reported wishes can be influenced by social desirability and may not translate into actual births if conditions worsen or improve. Cross-national differences reflect cultural norms, economic development, and policy contexts.