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Challenges in Measuring and Studying Multipartnered Fertility in American Survey Data

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Listed:
  • Karen Benjamin Guzzo

    (Bowling Green State University)

  • Cassandra Dorius

    (Iowa State University)

Abstract

Multipartnered fertility (“MPF”) has become a major topic of interest in the United States due to potential negative linkages with parental, child, and family wellbeing. A first step in studying any newly emerging (or newly identified) social phenomenon is to properly define the issue and identify its prevalence. However, this is problematic in the case of MPF because most existing sources of data were not originally designed to study MPF. We examine the major data sources used to produce estimates of MPF in the United States, discussing the methodological issues that produce conflicting prevalence estimates and providing guidelines for producing comparable estimates. We also discuss important considerations for research seeking to link MPF and outcomes. Our recommendations will help researchers situate their findings in the broader literature and spur future research.

Suggested Citation

  • Karen Benjamin Guzzo & Cassandra Dorius, 2016. "Challenges in Measuring and Studying Multipartnered Fertility in American Survey Data," Population Research and Policy Review, Springer;Southern Demographic Association (SDA), vol. 35(4), pages 553-579, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:poprpr:v:35:y:2016:i:4:d:10.1007_s11113-016-9398-9
    DOI: 10.1007/s11113-016-9398-9
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Mariana Amorim & Laura M. Tach, 2019. "Multiple-Partner Fertility and Cohort Change in the Prevalence of Half-Siblings," Demography, Springer;Population Association of America (PAA), vol. 56(6), pages 2033-2061, December.
    2. Lindsay M. Monte, 2019. "Multiple-Partner Fertility in the United States: A Demographic Portrait," Demography, Springer;Population Association of America (PAA), vol. 56(1), pages 103-127, February.
    3. Jake J. Hays, 2023. "Multipartner Fertility and Psychological Distress: Evidence for Social Selection," Population Research and Policy Review, Springer;Southern Demographic Association (SDA), vol. 42(3), pages 1-30, June.
    4. Wendy D. Manning, 2020. "Young Adulthood Relationships in an Era of Uncertainty: A Case for Cohabitation," Demography, Springer;Population Association of America (PAA), vol. 57(3), pages 799-819, June.

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