Analysis of economic factors influencing the reproductive behavior of youth

Introduction. The relevance of the study is determined by the declining birth rate and population aging in many countries. Studying the influence of economic factors such as income, housing costs, access to education and healthcare helps to develop measures to stimulate the birth rate and address demographic challenges. The study is aimed at analyzing approaches to reproductive behavior and identifying the main economic factors influencing the formation of reproductive behavioral models. Materials and methods. The study utilized articles from scientific journals in economics, sociology, demography, and psychology, focusing on the connection between reproductive behavior and economic factors (e.g., Population Research and Policy Review, Journal of Population Economics, European Journal of Population, etc.). The methods included theoretical and comparative analysis of regional, national, and socio-economic differences in reproductive trends. Results. Economic factors significantly influence the reproductive behavior of youth. Key aspects include material conditions, housing issues, and income level, which substantially impact the decision to have children. A high income level fosters a more positive perception of motherhood, whereas a low income creates heightened expectations regarding the number of children. Housing conditions are also important: owning an apartment motivates planning for several children; however, the decision to have the first child is the most challenging due to the need for preparation and confidence in state support. Economic independence and the balance between material status and the number of children play a crucial role, especially with the growing number of low-income large families. An important factor is population mobility: the aspiration for a better life outside one’s home region delays childbearing until stability is achieved. Overall, contemporary reproductive behavioral strategies are driven by the rationality and economic capabilities of young people. Conclusion. The topic of reproductive behavior encompasses numerous aspects requiring thorough analysis. The complexity of the study lies in the fact that the analysis implies working not only with objective facts but also accounting for personal and psychological characteristics, which significantly complicates the research process. Therefore, it is necessary to continue studying this issue.