SMALL FAMILY NORMS AND FAMILY WELL-BEING IN INDONESIA, 2006–2014

Abstract

SummaryThis study examines the consequences of the universalization of small family norms in Indonesia for family well-being over the past decade (2006–2014) using contrasting views of Malthusian theory. Data came from Indonesia’s 2006–2014 Socio-Economic Survey (Susenas) conducted by Indonesia’s Bureau of Statistics and from official statistics. The survey covered 2.3 million households in 483 districts of the country. The findings show a steady small family ratio and an increase in family well-being over this period. A small family was found to be positively associated with high family well-being. The benefits of a small family for family well-being were found to vary between different sub-groups and sub-national levels. The data reveal that improving human capital and increasing access to formal jobs may be among the channels by which small family norms have increased family well-being in Indonesia.