The Swedish Family

Changes in family-related demographic behavior in Sweden since the early 1960s have included a rise in early consensual union formation postponement of both marriage and motherhood substantial increases in female employment rates and more divorces. Much of the fertility decline that began in the mid-1960s has been caused by a sharp drop in 3rd-birth rates. These changes are largely attributable to public policy features that are unique to Sweden and seek to ensure a decent standard of living for all citizens. Family life and sexual behavior is considered to belong in the personal domain and public policies seek to promote unrestricted individual choice. Womens labor force participation has been promoted by a firm public commitment to gender equality and a stress on economic activity. Public policy further promotes the sharing of household and child care responsibilities by both men and women. Thus Swedish policies mitigate the direct costs and opportunity costs of childbearing. On balance such policies have played an important role in maintaining fertility at a level that is quite high relative to the rest of Western Europe and have led to a shift in childbearing toward higher ages.