Validation of a Responsibility and Childbearing Cognition Model Based on the Contribution-Oriented Approach in the Decision-Making Performance of Childless Couples

Abstract

The present study aimed to validate a model of responsibility and childbearing cognition based on the contribution-oriented approach in the decision-making performance of childless couples. This study employed a descriptive-correlational design using structural equation modeling. The statistical population consisted of childless couples living in Tehran in 2026, from whom 420 individuals (210 couples) were selected through purposive and convenience sampling. Research instruments included the Responsibility Questionnaire, Childbearing Cognition Questionnaire, and Contribution-Based Couple Decision-Making Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS-27 and AMOS-26 software. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficient, and structural equation modeling were used for data analysis. The findings indicated significant positive relationships among responsibility, childbearing cognition, and contribution-based decision-making performance of couples (P<0.01). Furthermore, model fit indices including χ²/df=2.41, CFI=0.95, and RMSEA=0.058 demonstrated an acceptable fit for the proposed model. Path analysis results revealed that responsibility had a significant direct effect on contribution-based decision-making performance (β=0.49) and childbearing cognition (β=0.54). In addition, childbearing cognition had a significant direct effect on contribution-based decision-making performance (β=0.36). Moreover, childbearing cognition played a significant mediating role in the relationship between responsibility and contribution-based decision-making. The findings suggest that responsibility and childbearing cognition play important roles in explaining couples’ contribution-oriented participation in family decision-making. The contribution-oriented approach may provide an appropriate framework for enhancing marital interaction and promoting positive attitudes toward childbearing. Therefore, greater attention to psychological and relational dimensions of family functioning appears necessary in counseling programs and fertility-related policymaking.