| Abstract: | This investigation was a prospective study based upon subjective expected utility theory, of the processes and determinants of birth planning decisions. The hypothesis tested was: Where maximum expected benefit will derive from having a (another) child, a pregnancy will occur and where maximum expected benefit will derive from not having a (another) child a pregnancy will not occur. Values associated with birth planning decisions for 74 married couples were found to be good predictors, one year later, of pregnancy status. The implications of these results were discussed as they related to birth planning counseling and to population policy. |
