China's Population Growth: Policy and Prospects

Examines the history & success of the strict population control policy adopted by the People's Republic of China in 1979, which allows only one child for most families & provides stiff penalties for noncompliance. Focus is placed on Hebei Province surrounding Beijing & the municipality of Tianjin. The one-child policy has been most effective among women with worker urban registration & least effective among peasant women. Urban women are also more likely to be penalized for noncompliance. Strong cultural preference for sons has led to increased noncompliance as well as female abortion & infanticide. It is concluded that the Chinese government's population program has been largely ineffective, & limited modifications should be made. 7 Tables. M. Cella