Objective: To develop a Semantic Differential Scale for Fertility Attitudes among Chinese Childless Young Adults based on the Tripartite Attitude Model and to test its reliability and validity.Methods: Fertility-related words were collected using the Free Association Method. Core semantic anchor points were classified and refined to generate initial items. Subsequently, Item Analysis, Exploratory Factor Analysis , Confirmatory Factor Analysis , and reliability and validity tests were conducted. Results: Three factors (Cognitive, Affective, and Behavioral Tendency) were extracted. The model demonstrated good fit indices. The total scale score positively correlated with positive fertility motivations and fertility intention, and negatively correlated with negative fertility motivations and fertility stress. Both internal consistency reliability and test-retest reliability were satisfactory. Conclusion: The scale is suitable for multidimensional assessment of fertility attitudes among childless young adults in China.

 

Based on a nationally representative sample, this study identifies the intergenerational transmission of fertility values between parents and their offspring as its core research focus. It systematically examines the predictive relationship of fertility values across generations while exploring the moderating roles of demographic variables (gender and birth cohort), developmental contexts (urban-rural upbringing), and cognitive-affective factors (perception of rearing conditions and positive parenting affect).The results indicate that parental fertility values significantly and positively predict those of their offspring. Moderation analysis reveals that both structural and psychological factors significantly influence the transmission intensity of these values within the family system. This research elucidates the psychological mechanisms underlying the persistence of traditional fertility values and provides empirical evidence for understanding value shifts in low-fertility societies, offering insights for the formulation of related population policies.

To explore the mechanism through which the perception of Neijuan influences fertility intention, 473 participants were exposed to a Neijuan priming task and subsequently completed Neijuan perception scale, fertility intention scale, and basic psychological needs scale. The results indicated that: (1) The Neijuan priming task effectively induced Neijuan perception among participants, while also reducing their fertility intention and satisfaction of basic psychological needs. (2) Neijuan perception and its dimension negatively predicted fertility intention, with basic psychological needs satisfaction serving as a full mediator. This study was the first to examine the relationship and underlying mechanism between Neijuan perception and fertility intention, and offered valuable insights for addressing population-related challenges.