Differences in Marital Satisfaction and Intention for Subsequent Childbirth by Latent Profile of Family Values among Parents with Young Children in Korea

The focus is on family values, marital satisfaction, and the intention for subsequent childbirth. By classifying parents based on family values and examining marital satisfaction and the intention for subsequent childbirth within these groups, the study will provide insights into future childbirth trends and identify factors influencing the intention for subsequent childbirth among different groups. This study was conducted with parents of children aged 0 to 5 attending six daycare centers in Korea, using a questionnaire to gather responses regarding family values, intention for subsequent childbirth, and marital satisfaction. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyze the characteristics of the key variables, and latent profile analysis was conducted to classify latent groups based on family values. In the verification of differences, the three-step approach was used. First, the latent profile analysis revealed three groups: the 'neutral values group' with lower emphasis on gender roles compared to other group, the 'individualistic values group' with lower values on marriage and children but higher emphasis on gender roles, and the 'family-centered values group' characterized by higher levels of various sub-factors in overall family values. Second, comparing marital satisfaction and intention for subsequent childbirth among latent groups, the FCVG showed significantly higher levels than the TVG and the IVG. In their marriages, couples differed in the values they held regarding parenting, marriage, and children. Therefore, maintaining strong values in marriage and parenting and establishing a family serve as the foundation for realizing new selfhood through parenthood. Simultaneously, forming values within the new roles of being a spouse and a parent is crucial.