Natalism

Definition

Natalism or pronatalism refers to a view that holds child-bearing and parenthood as desirable. Some versions of natalism may view child-bearing as a duty while others may view it as supererogatory but desirable.

At the individual level

The extent to which individuals embrace natalistic views affects their ideal fertility, and more indirectly, their expected fertility and completed fertility.

At the institutional level

Governments and other organizations may pursue pronatalist policies if natalist views are held by their voters. employees, customers, etc. For instance, companies may have pronatalist policies such as generous support in material, financial, and other ways for employees having children if they believe this will endear them to their employees. Governments may embrace pronatalist policies such as child tax credits, subsidized daycare and schooling, and direct exhortations to couples to bear children.