Causes of collapsing birthrate all over the world?

Some reasons behind the collapsing birthrate we see all over the world?

Economic Considerations:

Evidence: Research shows that countries with higher costs of living, such as Japan and many Western European nations, have lower birthrates. A study by the OECD indicates that financial stability is a significant factor in family planning decisions.

Warrant: When individuals perceive that they cannot afford the financial burden of raising children, they are likely to delay or avoid parenthood. Economic security is a rational priority that influences reproductive choices.

Changing Social Norms:

Evidence: Surveys indicate that younger generations prioritize personal fulfillment and career success over traditional family roles. For instance, a Pew Research Center study found that many millennials view having a successful career as more important than having children.

Warrant: As societal values shift towards individualism and self-actualization, people are likely to choose paths that align with their personal goals rather than conforming to traditional expectations of family life.

Access to Contraception and Family Planning:

Evidence: The introduction of effective contraceptive methods has been linked to declines in birthrates. According to the Guttmacher Institute, increased access to contraception has led to a significant decrease in unintended pregnancies.

Warrant: When individuals have the ability to control their reproductive choices, they can make informed decisions about when to have children, resulting in lower birthrates as they may choose to delay or limit family size.

Work-Life Balance:

Evidence: Countries with supportive family policies, such as paid parental leave and affordable childcare, tend to have higher birthrates. For example, Sweden's family-friendly policies correlate with a relatively high birthrate compared to countries lacking such support.

Warrant: If individuals perceive that they cannot balance work and family life due to a lack of support, they may opt against having children, prioritizing their careers instead.

Urbanization:

Evidence: Studies show that urban areas often have lower birthrates compared to rural areas. The United Nations reports that urbanization leads to lifestyle changes that favor smaller families.

Warrant: The challenges of urban living, including higher costs and space constraints, can lead individuals to prefer fewer children or to remain child-free, as they adapt to the realities of city life.

Cultural Shifts:

Evidence: Research indicates that cultural attitudes toward parenting have evolved, with many viewing it as a significant commitment. The American Psychological Association notes that the perception of parenting as a demanding and resource-intensive role can deter individuals from having children.

Warrant: When people perceive child-rearing as an overwhelming responsibility, they may rationally choose to delay or avoid it altogether, aligning their choices with their values and lifestyle preferences.