Sociological Analysis of Fertility Differentials among Pakhtun Women

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the underlying causes of fertility differentials in Pakhtun society. The study was qualitative in nature, conducted in the district of Malakand of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan, where 30 married women were selected purposively. The data was collected through in-depth interviews with female research investigators, keeping in view the cultural sensitivity of the area and to ensure the collection of proper facts, analysed thematically. Major findings of the study showed that early marriages, firm belief in religion, avoidance of contraceptives, preference of male children, socio-economic background of the family, women's education, job opportunities, and their autonomy in household decision-making are some of the key reasons for fertility differentials among the Pakthun tribes. To control fertility and to limit the gap between fertility differentials of different groups, education, jobs, and autonomy, especially financial autonomy, should be given to women to decide their number and spacing of children without external pressure.