Does broadband Internet affect fertility?
Level 2 - randomized trial
Level 2 by design analogy (econometric natural experiment / quasi-experimental panel analysis).
OpenAlex W2752354884 · doi:10.1080/00324728.2019.1584327
What was done
Using German panel data and county-level total fertility data, the authors evaluated whether broadband availability affects fertility decisions among women aged 25–45. They applied an econometric identification strategy devised by Falck and colleagues to estimate causal effects across education levels, and examined mechanisms including home- or part-time work, time spent with children, and life satisfaction.
What was found
The abstract reports no numerical values, effect sizes, or confidence intervals. Directionally, broadband availability showed positive effects on the fertility of highly educated women aged 25–45 (confirmed in county-level data), but not for less educated women. Broadband access significantly increased the share of women reporting home- or part-time work and had positive effects on time spent with children and overall life satisfaction.
Why it matters
This study provides evidence that digital infrastructure can help highly educated women reconcile work and family life in low-fertility settings, while highlighting a potential education-based digital divide in fertility.
Limits
The abstract does not state the sample size, numerical magnitudes, or statistical precision. Findings are based on the German institutional context and may not generalize to settings with different labor markets or childcare policies. The specific mechanics and assumptions of the identification strategy are not detailed in the abstract.
Cited by
- partial Research indicates that remote work increases fertility rates.