Examining the Impact of Gender Division of Labor at Home on Women’s Reproductive Behavior Using Agent-Based Simulation

Abstract

The divisio​n of gender roles within households has been identified as a critical factor influencing fertility decisions and behaviors, as evidenced by the decline in fertility rates below the replacement level. The objective of this paper is to investigate and anticipate the impact of the division of gender roles in households on the reproductive behavior of women in Tehran province using agent-based modeling (ABM) tools. Data from the 2017 Iran Fertility Transition Survey (IFTS) has been utilized for this purpose. The simulation results suggest that the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) in Tehran province will decrease to 1.06 children by 2029, with a projected precipitous decline in fertility rates over the next decade. Furthermore, the AnyLogic software was employed to implement scenarios that examined the consequences of both reducing and increasing men's involvement in domestic work division. According to these simulations, if male participation decreases by 15%, the TFR could fall to 1.03 children. Conversely, if male participation increases by 15%, the TFR could rise to 1.09 children by 2029. Based on these findings, the recommendations section underscores the necessity for family-friendly policies that prioritize cultural and social values that encourage males to participate in household responsibilities. The objective of this method is to mitigate gender inequality and establish an environment that is conducive to the growth of fertility rates.

Keywords

• agent-based simulation
• family support policies
• gender division of domestic labor
• low fertility