Question

in 1950, a country had a total fertility rate of 5.9. in 2010, the total fertility rate of the country was 2.3. which of the following is most likely the reason for the change in total fertility rate? a women had increased educational opportunities and had children later in life. b families had limited access to family planning and contraceptives. c there were lower infant mortality rates as a result of increased access to healthcare. d the country shifted to a more agricultural - based economy and the need for child labor decreased.

Explanation:

• Option A: When women have increased educational opportunities, they often delay having children. This leads to a lower total fertility rate as they focus on education and career first.
• Option B: Limited access to family planning and contraceptives would likely keep the fertility rate high, not lower it.
• Option C: Lower infant mortality rates due to better healthcare might initially make families feel they need to have fewer children (since more survive), but this is not as directly related as women's education and delayed child - bearing.
• Option D: A shift to an agricultural - based economy usually increases the need for child labor (as more hands are needed on the farm), which would likely increase the fertility rate.

Answer:

A. Women had increased educational opportunities and had children later in life.