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Explain the term 'birth rate' - Leaving Cert Geography - Question C - 2011
Question C
Explain the term 'birth rate'. Explain how any of the following factors influences birth rates: - Medical technology - Culture and society - Income levels.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain the term 'birth rate' - Leaving Cert Geography - Question C - 2011
Step 1
Explain the term 'birth rate'.
Answer
The term 'birth rate' refers to the number of live births per 1,000 people in a given population over a specific time period, usually a year. It is a crucial demographic indicator that provides insight into population growth and reproductive patterns within a society.
The birth rate can be influenced by various factors, including economic, social, and cultural contexts. A high birth rate often indicates a young population with fewer access to family planning and education, while a low birth rate may suggest a more developed society with better healthcare, increased women's rights, and more effective reproductive health services.
Step 2
Explain how Medical technology influences birth rates.
Answer
Medical technology plays a significant role in influencing birth rates. Advancements in medical technology, such as improved prenatal care, access to contraception, and assisted reproductive technologies like in-vitro fertilization (IVF), can lead to a decrease in birth rates.
For example, the availability of effective contraceptive methods allows families to plan and space their children more effectively, resulting in fewer unintended pregnancies. Additionally, improvements in maternal healthcare can lead to better health outcomes for mothers and infants, which can, paradoxically, lead to smaller family sizes as families feel more secure about their children's survival.
Step 3
Explain how Culture and society influences birth rates.
Answer
Culture and society have a profound impact on birth rates. Societal norms and values regarding family size, gender roles, and the importance of children can shape reproductive decisions. In cultures that value large families, there is often a higher birth rate due to societal expectations and support structures for raising children.
Conversely, in societies where individualism is emphasized, or where women are encouraged to pursue education and careers, birth rates tend to decline as women delay childbearing or choose to have fewer children. Additionally, cultural beliefs regarding family planning and the use of contraception can significantly influence birth rates.
Step 4
Explain how Income levels influences birth rates.
Answer
Income levels are closely associated with birth rates. Generally, higher income levels correlate with lower birth rates. In wealthier societies, individuals and families often prioritize education and career advancement, which can lead to delayed marriage and childbearing.
In contrast, in low-income communities, economic necessity may lead families to have more children to ensure that some survive into adulthood and can contribute to the household. Additionally, access to healthcare and family planning resources is often limited in low-income areas, leading to higher birth rates.