Demographics predict that the earth’s population will commence to shrink by 2080 — a direct consequence of declining birth rates which started two generations earlier. It is thought provoking to consider what this means for moms — there would be fewer women with children. And the women with children will be a part of smaller families.
A shift away from motherhood is taking place gradually but steadily. It is a matter of concern. In future, some 50 per cent population of some nations may opt for choosing children. In some nations, deaths are exceeding births already, and populations are shrinking. In only the sub-Saharan Africa, the birth rate exceeds the death rate.
In past, natural calamities have affected population — famine, epidemics or war. But the recent demographic change is self-chosen, and it is happening worldwide. Though smaller families improve the standard of living, in the long run, lower birth rates eventually result in human extinction.
It is a matter of speculation how this will play out. Lesser children could mean greater investment in each child. Technology may compensate the shortfall in population. AI can act as a force to counteract labour slump. There could be greater dignity for respect for life. Or else, the whole thing could be callous and reduce to gene-editing.
Declining birthrate does not mean only lesser children but could also mean lesser moms. Socially children will have lesser company. There are fewer siblings to play around. Women opting for motherhood will have less guidance from senior moms. Mothers will be anxious about parenting the children right.
Today married mothers are a happier lot. Single mothers too find life fulfilling. Women without children may fail to see the purpose in their lives. Fewer parents mean less support for public investments in schools, playgrounds, sidewalks and parks. The whole environment becomes family unfriendly.
We owe it to future generation — make structural and cultural changes to support motherhood.
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