This report critically examines the issue of sterilization in the United States based on data from the National Survey of Family Growth, Cycles I and II, spanning the years 1973 to 1976. Of particular concern is analysis of sterilization rates as they vary across categories of race, socioeconomic status, welfare status, number of children and desire for the service. The development of a framework containing competing theories and philosophies, based upon previous literature in the area, provides a useful paradigm for an understanding of the significance of sterilization rates. The methodology includes bivariate techniques involving tabular analysis as well as multivariate techniques through the use of logistic regression analysis. Findings support hypotheses related to class factors and parity, while the racial and altruistic interpretations are not supported. Policy implications and areas requiring further research are specified.
KIE: The initiation of federal payments for contraceptive sterilizations in the 1970s was accompanied by reports of abuse and charges of racial and class bias. Using data from the National Survey of Family Growth, Cycles I and II (1973-1976), the authors examine rates of female sterilization for contraceptive purposes in the United States, with particular attention to the variables of race, poverty, welfare status, and parity. They conclude that a strong case for discriminatory sterilization exists, with rates determined more by class and welfare status than by race, and that these findings have serious implications for social policy.