Question

Why did population growth rates slow down in the mid 1970s in developed countries—what are policy implications for developing countries?

Answer 1

There were several reasons behind the decline of population growth rates in the 1970s in developed countries. Probably the birth date as well as the death rate both were falling but the fall in the death rate was more sharp. The reason for this behaviour was a improvement in Medical Technology and innovation in medicine and medical procedures that increased the longevity of life and reduced mortality rates. There was awareness regarding various contraception methods that reduced frequent pregnancies. More importantly, women participation in labour force was responsible for reduction in birth rates because there was now and orientation towards the career. All these factors played an important role in reducing the growth rate of population.

Developing countries can also learn from the experience of the developed country. They are indeed importing the Medical Technology and medicinal procedures developed in the west to improve their living conditions. Birth rate and death rate are still high in developing countries and they can ascertain that a reduction in these two is important for the reduction in overall population growth rate. They need to use more contraceptive methods and increase awareness among people about the same so that the birth rate can reduce.