College students' preferences for childbearing and timing of childbearing were investigated with a socialization approach. Specifically investigated were two questions: Are unmarried males and females similar in their attitudes toward desired family size and preferred age at first birth? Do similar factors influence male and female attitudes? To assess whether similar factors are influencing attitudes, the study applied a conceptual framework for fertility socialization. Data were obtained from a questionnaire mailed to a random sample of undergraduate students attending a moderate-sized, public university; 77 males and 144 females returned the questionnaire. Results supported the hypothesis that there were no differences between males and females in desired family size and preferred age at first birth. The analysis also supported the fertility socialization approach and generally similar factors predicted family size and preferred age at first birth for males and females. Although there were no significant differences, the slightly smaller family size desired by males emphasizes the need to focus on the male role in decision-making. Both males and females preferred to have their first child at around 27 years of age. It was concluded that the socialization approach toward childbearing had proven especially useful in identifying specific values about fertility which form the basis for decision-making. (Author/RH)