Navigating Future Preferences: A Narrative Analysis of Fertility Decisions in Italy's Evolving Landscape

This study investigates the narratives surrounding fertility intentions and the fertility gap, emphasizing the evolving preferences of men and women in Italy. The discrepancy between intended and realized fertility reflects a complex interplay of deliberate choices to remain child-free and barriers that prevent individuals from having children. To explore these motivations, we analyzed specific emails sent to a prominent Italian newspaper in response to a survey addressing the country’s low birth rate and fertility challenges, published in March 2023. This national platform, which ranks among the top three in online reach, facilitated a rich dialogue on a pressing societal issue.

Utilizing thematic qualitative analysis, we examined 86 personal narratives from 40 men and 46 women—comprising parents, childless individuals, and those child-free by choice. Narratives are a method of recapitulating past experiences through events that individuals interpret and convey. Labov (1972) noted that narratives encapsulate sociological information, enhancing the depth and robustness of our research. This approach reflects how individuals make sense of their experiences, revealing the socio-cultural, psychological, and emotional factors influencing fertility decisions that quantitative data often overlook.

Our analysis unearthed three salient themes: economic uncertainty coupled with ineffective family policies, mistrust of public healthcare regarding fertility treatments, and the anxiety linked to intensive parenting expectations. These themes resonate across genders, indicating a shared landscape of priorities and concerns among individuals regardless of their fertility status.

The convergence of narratives suggests a need for future policy interventions that address these critical issues, particularly focusing on economic stability, accessible healthcare, and robust family support systems. By understanding these narratives, we gain valuable insights into the preferences and behaviors shaping the fertility landscape in Italy, ultimately informing decision-makers on how to foster conditions that align with the needs of future generations.