You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Many people today, especially in the developed world, are choosing to have fewer children, or none at all.
Why is this happening, and do you think it is a good trend?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experiences.
You should write at least 250 words.
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Sample Essay 1
A vast majority of people have recently decided to have a smaller number of children, a trend which has become ubiquitous, specially in rich countries. Considering the skyrocketing living cost and environmental degradation, I see it as a positive development. Following paragraphs are going to elucidate this idea in detail.
Constant increase of living expenditure is pushing parents to keep their family size small. Specially, when it comes to a baby, in many senses, the rearing cost is much higher than the living cost of an average adult. In fact, in this modern era, the luxury needs have become basic ones, and parents are obliged to buy these items as per their children’s demand because of the emotional attachment with the babies. To illustrate, regardless of their affordability, sometimes parents are bound to buy expensive gadgets for their children without a second thought, which can lead them towards further financial difficulties and eventually entrap them into a vicious cycle of poverty. Also, the basic needs like children’s proper education, nutritious food intake and healthcare all are getting sky high expensive day by day. These are the key reasons why parents are getting demotivated to have more children.
However, I strongly support this trend because many nations are struggling to cope up with their population in terms of meeting their basic needs. In addition, overpopulation has a damaging impact on various aspects. Take the environment as an example; numerous studies have found that there is a direct link between population density and level of air pollution. There is no doubt that more industries are needed to feed the growing population, and as a result, there will be more polluted air quality and water body. Also, some global issues like deforestation and greenhouse gases are the effects of overpopulation. To curb this situation, going for fewer children policy is much appreciated.
In conclusion, relentless rise of the current world’s living expenses is one of the key catalysts behind resorting to fewer children policy, and this change is much appreciated considering people’s subsistence earning and the dire environmental impact.
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Sample Essay 2
In contemporary society, particularly within affluent nations, a notable shift towards opting for smaller families or foregoing parenthood altogether has emerged. This trend, driven by factors such as personal freedom and economic considerations, warrants a nuanced discussion. The ensuing paragraphs will delve into the motivations behind this societal shift and evaluate its implications.
Economic constraints stand as a primary driver for many choosing to limit their family size. In developed countries, the cost of living, coupled with the expenses associated with raising children—ranging from education to healthcare—can be daunting. The pursuit of career ambitions further compounds this issue, as balancing professional growth with parenting demands significant sacrifices. For instance, the necessity to secure a stable financial foundation before considering parenthood often results in delayed childbearing or decisions against it. Moreover, societal advancements have fostered a climate where individualism and personal achievement are highly valued, influencing many to prioritize personal development and leisure over traditional family roles.
Conversely, environmental concerns and a heightened awareness of global overpopulation have prompted some individuals to consciously decide against having children. This decision is often influenced by the ethical stance on minimizing one's carbon footprint and contributing to more sustainable population levels, a viewpoint that has particularly resonated with the younger generation. This emerging environmental consciousness, coupled with a profound desire to contribute positively to the planet's future, underscores a significant shift towards more responsible family planning decisions. Furthermore, this perspective is increasingly supported by social and digital media platforms, amplifying the message and encouraging a broader acceptance of such life choices.
In conclusion, the trend of having fewer children or none at all is multifaceted, rooted in economic realities, personal aspirations, and environmental conscientiousness. While it poses challenges to traditional societal structures and population demographics, it also reflects an adaptive response to contemporary global issues. As society continues to evolve, these personal decisions will likely remain integral to discussions on sustainable living and societal well-being.
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Sample Essay 3
In an era marked by profound shifts in societal norms, the trend towards smaller families or eschewing parenthood has become increasingly pronounced, especially in developed countries. This evolution, rooted in the quest for personal fulfillment and environmental stewardship, sets the stage for a critical examination. The forthcoming analysis will explore the underpinnings of this phenomenon, considering both the quest for personal autonomy and the imperative of ecological sustainability.
The pursuit of personal and professional aspirations has significantly influenced individual decisions regarding family size. In developed nations, where education and career opportunities abound, many prioritize achieving personal milestones and financial stability before embarking on the journey of parenthood. This delay or avoidance of childrearing is further compounded by the economic realities of raising children in high-cost living environments. The emphasis on personal development and the desire for a lifestyle unencumbered by the traditional responsibilities of parenting reflect a broader societal shift towards valuing individual choice and flexibility. For example, the ability to travel, pursue higher education, and engage in career advancement without the constraints of parenthood underscores a growing preference for lifestyles that prioritize personal growth and experiences.
Simultaneously, an acute awareness of environmental challenges and the global population's impact on Earth's resources has led to a conscientious decision-making process regarding procreation. Many individuals, particularly the younger generation, are adopting a forward-thinking approach to family planning, motivated by the desire to mitigate the environmental impact of human activity. This eco-conscious mindset is manifesting in the choice to have fewer children or none, as a means of contributing to a more sustainable future for the planet. The recognition of overpopulation's role in exacerbating environmental degradation, climate change, and resource scarcity underscores the ethical dimension of family planning in contemporary discourse.
In conclusion, the trends of having fewer children or opting out of parenthood altogether mirror a complex interplay of personal ambition, economic considerations, and environmental concerns. This reflection of changing societal values and priorities not only heralds a redefinition of family and success but also illustrates a collective response to the pressing challenges of our time. As such, these choices, while personal, resonate with broader implications for societal evolution and environmental preservation.
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