Differentials in Fertility and Contraceptive Behavior in Sri Lanka: the Ethno-Religious Factor.

Abstract

This study focuses on the effects of ethno-religiosity on fertility and contraceptive behavior in the plural society of Sri Lanka. The six ethno-religious groups: Sinhalese Buddhists, Sinhalese Christians, Sri Lanka Tamil Hindus, Sri Lanka Tamil Christians, Indian Tamils, and Moors are examined using data from the 1982 Sri Lanka Contraceptive Prevalence Survey. The analysis clearly shows that ethno-religious differences in fertility and contraceptive use are substantial. Within each group, however, socio-economic status is negatively associated with fertility. Those who are more educated have higher economic status, marry later, have lower child mortality, show better knowledge and more effective use of contraception, and experience lower fertility. The fertility behavior of Sinhalese Christians and Sri Lanka Tamil Hindus (living outside the Jaffna district in the north) show a pattern often found in minority groups i.e., "insecurities" of minority group status operate to depress fertility of higher socio-economic status members below majority levels. The fertility behavior of the Sri Lanka Tamil Hindus living in the Jaffna district, however, is different despite their national minority group status. It appears that high group density in the Jaffna district generates significant community influence leading individuals to reflect local community norms rather than norms expected of a national minority. This community influence also operates for Sinhalese Christians, living in predominantly Catholic areas. Thus geography, or local density, as well as the overall relative size of an ethno-religious group combines with socio-economic status to affect fertility. The policy implications of these findings suggest that the national fertility limitation programs can increase its impact by tailoring its messages and service more closely to the ethno-religious status of its clients.