| Despite the salient policy shift toward a universal three-child policy, public opinions toward the policy are largely banned online, yet it is worth examining to increase citizens’ intention for adoption. Utilizing conjoint analysis of survey data, this study explores divergences in policy preferences among different demographic groups within China, focusing particularly on gender and socioeconomic status (elite vs. mass). We examined responses to various hypothetical policy scenarios encompassing maternity and paternity leave, healthcare coverage, mortgage rate reduction, childcare coverage, and educational benefits. Our findings reveal that certain policy dimensions, such as maternity leave and reduction of mortgage rates, are universally adopted by citizens and elites. We also found significant gender-based differences in preferences, particularly concerning parental leave policies, with women showing greater sensitivity to policies targeting gender equity and family welfare. We also identified a disparity between the elite and the general population, with mortgage rate reduction emerging as a significant area of divergence. These insights contribute to our understanding of policy preference heterogeneity in China, highlighting the influence of gender and socioeconomic status on public support for social and economic policies. |
