Polarization and Flexibility in Attitudes Toward Assisted Reproduction: A Vignette Study

Daniele Vignoli (), Valentina Tocchioni (), Ester Lazzari () and Marco Cozzani ()
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Daniele Vignoli: Dipartimento di Statistica, Informatica, Applicazioni "G. Parenti", Universita' degli Studi di Firenze, https://www.danielevignoli.com/
Valentina Tocchioni: Dipartimento di Statistica, Informatica, Applicazioni "G. Parenti", Universita' degli Studi di Firenze, https://cercachi.unifi.it/cercachi-per-16839.html
Ester Lazzari: University of Vienna and Wittgenstein Centre for Demography and Global Human Capital (IIASA, OeAW, University of Vienna)
Marco Cozzani: Dipartimento di Statistica, Informatica, Applicazioni "G. Parenti", Universita' degli Studi di Firenze, https://www.disia.unifi.it

No 2026_02, Econometrics Working Papers Archive from Universita' degli Studi di Firenze, Dipartimento di Statistica, Informatica, Applicazioni "G. Parenti"

Abstract: While delayed parenthood and medical advancements have increased the utilization of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) across Europe, existing studies largely treat infertility as a medical issue, overlooking its socially constructed nature. This gap is problematic in light of the growing societal and political debates around ART, which resemble other polarized, partisan ethical issues. This paper examines attitudes toward ART, with a focus on Italy—a country traditionally known for conservative family norms, yet where ART use has become more widespread in recent years. We employ a factorial survey experiment within a nationally representative, quota-controlled survey in which respondents evaluate vignettes describing fictitious couples facing infertility and rate, on a 0–10 scale, whether they should pursue ART. Descriptive results reveal polarized attitudes toward ART use: approximately 15% of responses in our sample are strongly in favor, while about 10% are strongly opposed. Nonetheless, our findings also indicate that certain characteristics of the fictitious couples—such as having tried to conceive for over a year and advanced maternal age—positively influence support for ART. In contrast, heterologous treatments, going abroad, and being already a parent are generally associated with more negative attitudes. By demonstrating that views on ART are both polarized and fluid, shaped by the socio-demographic circumstances surrounding each couple, this study provides a foundation for future research on ART in contemporary aging societies.

Keywords: Assisted reproductive technology; Factorial survey experiment; Attitudes; Italy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: J13 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Pages: 37 pages
Date: 2026-02
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