Question

questions 9 and 10 refer to the following. population data for four different countries, 2015 the total fertility rate in country a was 6.8 in 1980. which of the following statements best supports the change in the total fertility rate in country a between 1980 and 2015? a the total fertility rate increased as a result of improved health care and better nutrition. b the total fertility rate remained constant even though there was improved access to clean water. c the total fertility rate decreased as a result of a delay in age of first marriage and increased contraceptive use. d the total fertility rate decreased as a result of increased infant mortality rate.

Explanation:

• Option A: Improved health care and better nutrition usually lead to a decrease in total fertility rate (as people have more confidence in child survival and can plan families better), not an increase. So this option is incorrect.
• Option B: The total fertility rate of country A changed from 6.8 in 1980 to 3.0 in 2015 (from the table), so it did not remain constant. This option is incorrect.
• Option C: A delay in the age of first marriage and increased contraceptive use are well - known factors that can lead to a decrease in the total fertility rate. This is a valid reason for the change from 6.8 (1980) to 3.0 (2015).
• Option D: An increased infant mortality rate would likely lead people to have more children (to ensure some survive), which would increase the total fertility rate, not decrease it. So this option is incorrect.

Answer:

C. The total fertility rate decreased as a result of a delay in age of first marriage and increased contraceptive use.