AbstractsSociology

The main purpose of this essay is to attempt to shed light on possible underlying causes behind the drastic negative population growth in Japan. Additionally, similar trends of negative population growth around the world will be looked at, in light of the situation in Japan. The first chapter of this essay provides a brief outline of statistics both from Japan and other countries showing the development of the birth rate in those regions. Following the outline is a subchapter which aims to explain the statistics, and subsequently outline the consequences of negative population growth on the planet and the economy. Through this analysis of statistical data the goal is to gain insight into possible problems the governments of various countries are facing. The second chapter explores how various social changes within the Japanese society have affected the birth rate in Japan. The third chapter attempts to describe the sexual behavior of the younger generations in Japan today, as well as explore the various services many in Japan have begun to use as substitutes for relationships, contemplating whether these factors can be linked with the declining birth rate. The fourth and final chapter discusses the Japanese government’s methods and attempts to increase the birthrate. These methods are then compared with measures taken by other nations with similar problems.