Kathmandu. In many countries around the world, a major problem is growing rapidly. People are having fewer children than ever before. In many countries, the situation has become such that the population is gradually decreasing.
It was previously believed that the main reasons for this are inflation, job pressure, small houses and changing lifestyles. But now research is revealing a new and surprising angle. Scientists and researchers are trying to understand whether smartphones and social media are also a major factor in the decline in birth rates.
Social media is changing lifestyle
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According to a report in the Financial Times, birth rates in more than two-thirds of the world’s countries have fallen below the level considered necessary to maintain a stable population. Simply put, in many countries, people are no longer having enough children to replace the next generation. This problem already existed in countries such as South Korea, Japan, China, Europe and the United States. But now this trend is becoming increasingly visible in many countries in Latin America, the Middle East and Asia.
“The sudden decline in birth rates over the past 10-15 years cannot be explained by economic factors alone. Researchers believe that smartphones and social media have changed people’s lifestyles.
People are socializing less now. Relationships are becoming more difficult and loneliness is increasing. This is ultimately affecting marriages and children.
Where the Internet is fast, the birth rate is slower!
One study examined data from the introduction of 4G internet networks in the US and the UK. It found that where fast mobile internet was previously available, there was a rapid decline in the birth rate. According to the researchers, with the advent of smartphones, young people spent more time online and less time meeting face-to-face.
According to experts, a large part of dating, friendships and relationships are now limited to screens. People constantly see the best life of others on social media. It’s changing their expectations about relationships. Many are staying away from long-term relationships. The number of young people living alone is also increasing.
According to a report in the Financial Times, the birth rate fell because previously married couples had fewer children. “But the biggest reason right now is a lack of relationships,” the report said, meaning that many people are unable to get into marriage or long-term relationships. ’
However, experts don’t blame smartphones alone. Expensive housing, job pressures, the cost of children’s education and fears about the future are also major factors. In many countries, young people are finding it difficult to find permanent jobs and buy homes. As a result, they are postponing their decision to get married and have children.
Social media is also having an impact on mental health. Many reports suggest that constant exposure to screens is increasing loneliness, stress and depression. This is affecting people’s social lives.
Some governments are also providing financial support to stop this declining birth rate. Countries such as Japan and South Korea offer child support, tax breaks and other programs. Despite this, there has been no significant improvement in the birth rate.
According to experts, financial assistance alone will not solve the problem. Because real change lies in people’s lifestyles and social behavior. –Agency
