What is the impact of public policies encouraging fertility in Italy and other countries in Europe?
A) They are likely to raise fertility and population size somewhat.
B) They may protect against dramatic declines in the birth rate, but are unlikely to raise it much.
C) They are likely to backfire and actually reduce fertility.
D) They are too costly and burdensome administratively to be worthwhile.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Public policies encouraging fertility in Italy and other countries in Europe may protect against dramatic declines in the birth rate, but they are unlikely to raise it much. This is because fertility rates are influenced by a variety of factors beyond just financial incentives, such as cultural norms, educational and career opportunities for women, and access to affordable childcare. Additionally, policies that are too aggressive in their fertility goals may backfire and actually reduce fertility by creating a sense of pressure and anxiety around having children.

What Is the Impact of Public Policies Encouraging Fertility in Italy