【DSE 英文】2024 DSE English Paper 2 Part B Q2 詳細題解

The Transformation of Childbearing Trends

A century ago, women in Hong Kong typically had an average of five children per family, a reflection of the societal norms and economic realities of that era. Today, this figure has dropped dramatically to fewer than one child per woman. This significant shift in childbearing patterns is the result of various interconnected factors, including economic progress, changing social norms, and improved access to education and healthcare. By exploring these reasons, we can better understand why smaller family sizes have become more desirable in modern society compared to the past.

One key factor contributing to the decline in birth rates is the profound economic changes over the past century. The cost of raising children has risen sharply, making large families less practical for many couples. In the early 20th century, children often contributed to household income by working in agricultural or industrial settings, making larger families an economic advantage. However, in today’s economy, raising a child demands substantial financial resources, particularly for education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities. According to a 2022 study by the Hong Kong Census and Statistics Department, the average cost of raising a child to the age of 18 exceeds HKD 1.5 million, including expenses for education and general living costs. Urbanization and the shift to a service-based economy have further increased the financial burden on families, making it more difficult to support multiple children. Consequently, modern couples often prioritize financial stability and quality of life over having large families. This has also led to the rise of dual-income households, where both partners work to sustain a comfortable lifestyle. By choosing to have fewer children, parents can allocate more resources to ensure their children enjoy better opportunities, such as quality education and extracurricular enrichment. This reflects a broader societal trend that values individual success and well-being over family size.

In addition to economic factors, shifting social norms have played a significant role in reducing birth rates. Historically, societal expectations placed women in traditional roles as mothers and homemakers, and high birth rates were often seen as a sign of family prosperity. Over time, these norms have evolved, granting women greater autonomy in making reproductive choices. Modern society emphasizes personal fulfilment and career aspirations, reshaping the role of motherhood. The introduction of family planning services and reproductive health education in the late 20th century has empowered women to make informed decisions about childbearing. A 2021 survey by the Hong Kong Women's Coalition on Equal Opportunities found that 65% of women cited personal goals and career ambitions as the main reasons for delaying or forgoing motherhood. This represents a significant departure from the past, where societal pressure to have large families was more common. Today, many women prioritize their education, careers, and personal growth, leading to a cultural preference for smaller families. This shift not only reflects changing gender roles but also promotes greater gender equality. Women are now more active participants in the workforce and society, with increased opportunities to pursue diverse life goals. Modern motherhood is increasingly seen as one of many fulfilling life paths rather than an obligatory role, further contributing to smaller family sizes.

Lastly, improved access to education and healthcare has been instrumental in reducing birth rates. In the early 20th century, women often lacked access to education and adequate healthcare, leaving them with limited options beyond child-rearing. Over time, the expansion of educational opportunities and advancements in healthcare have significantly altered women’s life trajectories. Today, women in Hong Kong enjoy high levels of educational attainment, with over 50% of university graduates being female. Higher education often leads women to delay childbirth or choose to have fewer children as they focus on their careers and personal development. Additionally, advancements in healthcare, including access to contraceptives and family planning services, have given women greater control over their reproductive lives. This empowerment has allowed women to make informed decisions about family size, often resulting in fewer children and healthier family dynamics. Furthermore, women with higher education levels tend to experience better health outcomes, enabling them to better plan and provide for their families. The combination of education and healthcare access has not only improved women’s quality of life but also contributed to a more sustainable population growth.

In summary, the decline in birth rates in Hong Kong—from an average of five children per family to fewer than one—reflects profound changes in economic conditions, social norms, and access to education and healthcare. These factors have collectively made smaller family sizes more appealing, allowing couples to focus on financial stability, personal fulfilment, and empowerment. Understanding these transformations sheds light on the evolving values and individual choices that shape modern family planning in Hong Kong.