Populations - China One Child Policy (anti-natalist policy) Flashcards
(15 cards)
What year was the One Child Policy introduced?
1980
What was the purpose of the One Child Policy?
Control population growth due to fears of overpopulation
What was the policy?
Most families were limited to just one child
How was the distribution of the policy?
Stricter in rural areas, urban areas saw weaker enforcement
What were the exceptions (excluded from the policy)?
- Ethnic minorities
- First child with disability
- Some rural families if the first child was a girl
What were the enforcement methods?
- Free contraception access
- Financial rewards for compliance
- Penalties
- In extreme cases - forced abortions and sterilizations
What effect did the policy have on the fertility rate?
It was successful - fertility rate dropped below two children per woman mid-1990s
What consequence did it have on the sex-ratio?
Became skewed towards boys - Preference for boys led to sex-selective abortions and female infanticide
Resulted in a surge in international adoptions of Chinese girls
What consequence did it have for the elderly population?
Fewer young people to support elderly family members - resulted in an aging population
What consequence did it have on some children?
Resulted in many undocumented second children - they lacked access to education, healthcare and jobs
What policy revisions were made towards the end?
Some rural families allowed 2–3 children
What change was made in 2016?
All couples were permitted two children
What change was made in 2021?
Limit was raised to three children
Why was the limit increased in 2021?
Low birth rates, shrinking workforce, economic concerns
What cultural shift took place in recent years?
Many families now prefer having just one child due to high costs and lifestyle expectations
