China’s One-Child policy

Definition

This was an anti-natalist policy implemented by China from 1979 until 2015 that limited most families to one child in order to control population growth.

Analogy

Imagine if you were at an all-you-can-eat buffet but you're only allowed one plate of food. That's similar to how China’s One-Child policy worked - families could only have one "plate" (child) no matter how much they might want more.

Related terms

Overpopulation: This occurs when the number of people exceeds the carrying capacity of their habitat. The One-Child policy was introduced due to fears of overpopulation in China.

Demographic Transition Model (DTM): A model that describes population change over time. It shows how birth and death rates affect population growth – something directly impacted by policies like China's One-Child rule.

Fertility Rate: The average number of children born to women during their reproductive years. The One-Child policy aimed to lower China's fertility rate.