Parents in many parts of the world increasingly prefer girls over boys

**Title: Parents in Many Parts of the World Increasingly Prefer Girls Over Boys** **By David Park** In a significant cultural shift, many parents across the globe are increasingly expressing a preference for girls over boys, marking a notable change in societal attitudes towards gender. This trend is being observed in various regions, particularly in wealthier countries, where boys are increasingly viewed as a burden while girls are seen as a boon.

Key Details

A contributing factor to this shift may be a cultural reckoning with misogyny, as highlighted in Ruth Whippman’s book, “BoyMom: Reimagining Boyhood in the Age of Impossible Masculinity.” Whippman notes that recent revelations surrounding male behavior have influenced public perception. The #MeToo movement, which began in Hollywood, exposed widespread male predation across numerous industries and countries. High-profile cases involving figures such as Harvey Weinstein, Jeffrey Epstein, and Andrew Tate have brought attention to issues of abuse against women and girls, leading to a reevaluation of traditional gender roles. Technological advancements are also playing a crucial role in this evolving preference. With the advent of new testing methods, parents can now determine the sex of their unborn child much earlier in pregnancy. Some of these methods, which can be purchased online or in stores, require only a few drops of blood from the mother and can yield results as early as six weeks into gestation. This early detection allows parents to make decisions about the pregnancy before family and friends are aware of it. In the United States, the landscape of fertility treatments is changing as well. In vitro fertilization (IVF) and other fertility techniques are becoming more accessible and effective. Currently, approximately 25% of all IVF attempts in the U.S. result in live births, a significant increase from the 14% success rate recorded in the 1990s. Among couples utilizing sperm-sorting techniques to select the sex of their child, 90% express a desire for a balanced mix of sons and daughters. However, in practice, about 80% of these couples ultimately choose to have girls. Even if the natural sex ratios at birth remain stable, the growing preference for girls among parents in wealthier nations raises important questions about societal dynamics. Just as sex-selective abortions in developing countries reflect deep-rooted disparities and biases, the emerging inclination towards girls in affluent societies suggests a shift in how gender roles are perceived and valued. Addressing the social pressures that contribute to this preference could be beneficial, regardless of current statistics on sex ratios at birth.

Background

The preference for girls over boys is not merely a trend but reflects broader cultural changes and societal values. The implications of this shift are profound, as they may influence future gender dynamics and family structures. The ongoing discussions surrounding gender equality and the treatment of women in society are likely to shape these preferences further.

What"s Next

As technology continues to evolve and fertility treatments become more commonplace, it is essential to monitor how these developments affect gender ratios and societal attitudes. The potential for skewed sex ratios in the future raises concerns about the long-term implications for family structures and gender balance in society. Addressing the underlying social pressures that lead to a preference for girls could foster a more equitable environment for both genders. For further insights into related cultural dynamics, see our coverage on the fertility gap and its implications in contemporary society.