Traditions and customs are in a state of flux nowadays.
result of these cultural upheavals is that parents in many countries are now choosing to have fewer children than in the past. In
essay, I will examine what I consider to be the main advantages and potential drawbacks, from both children_s and parents_ perspectives, of having smaller families.
The benefits of having only
or two children are obvious. On a very basic level, a smaller family means more money and more time together. Whereas parents with many children tend to spend their days juggling school drop-offs, and extracurricular activities, not to mention work and running a home, those with only
or two have far fewer demands on their time and wallets. From the child_s point of view too, if they are an only child or have just
sibling, they will receive more attention and emotional support than if they were battling with five of six others.
attention can have long-term benefits not just for their self-esteem, but in their academic and professional life too.
Despite these positives, many people still consider a small family problematic. From the parents_ viewpoint, there may be
for their own welfare in old age. Indeed, there is a risk when a couple has no children or only
, that there will be nobody to care for them when they retire or become old and frail. In my country,
people will often end up in state-owned aged care facilities, which can be less than luxurious.
to
practical matter, some people
feel that by having only
child, parents are creating selfish
. Rather than benefiting from
as mentioned above, these youngsters can be over-parented and, some would argue, grow up spoiled and entitled.
In conclusion,
families are getting smaller in general, whether
is positive or not depends on the individual. Personally, while I can acknowledge the potential problems, I feel that smaller families are ultimately better off.
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