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Discuss the causes of overpopulation referring to examples that you have studied. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2011
Question B
Discuss the causes of overpopulation referring to examples that you have studied.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Discuss the causes of overpopulation referring to examples that you have studied. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2011
Step 1
Identify Causes of Overpopulation
Answer
Overpopulation can be attributed to several key causes:
- High Birth Rate: In many developing countries, cultural and societal norms encourage large families, leading to high birth rates.
- Decreased Mortality Rates: Advances in medical technology and healthcare have led to a significant decrease in mortality rates, especially infant mortality, contributing to increased population growth.
Step 2
Provide Named Examples
Answer
For instance:
- In Nigeria, the cultural emphasis on large families has resulted in a birth rate of approximately 5.3 children per woman.
- Conversely, in India, healthcare improvements have drastically reduced mortality rates, contributing to its overpopulation issue.
Step 3
Discussion of Causes
Answer
Discussing these aspects further:
-
High Birth Rate: This can be influenced by a lack of access to family planning and contraceptive methods. In regions where education on reproductive health is limited, families often grow larger than intended. Additionally, in some cultures, larger families are seen as a status symbol.
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Decreased Mortality Rates: Improved medical care has allowed more individuals to reach reproductive age and survive into adulthood. In regions where infectious diseases have been controlled, the population has surged due to survival rates increasing.
Moreover, factors like immigration and urbanization also exacerbate the situation, as people move to urban areas from rural ones in search of better opportunities, thus stressing urban resources.
In conclusion, addressing overpopulation requires a multi-faceted approach, including education, healthcare access, and policies aimed at managing growth.