[rbg81]

Its really kind of shocking that Italians, of all people, have few children. This is the opposite of what I’d expected.

[Clemenza]

Why should it shock you? Italy has taxpayer funded abortions, and a culture of small homes (and men never leaving said home until they get married, which is getting rare), and a generous welfare state that has replaced the family support network. Coupled with the fact that the majority of Italians don't attend Church (Attendence figures are around 30%), and you should understand why Italian society is the way it is.