Birth Rate Plummets, Economy Rockets: Impact of Birth Rate on Economic Indicators in the Philippines
Authors: Angela A. Arcaño, Jean Dennis Hipolito, Chanel Justine Ng, and John Anthony Jose
Abstract
This study sought to understand the relationship between birth rate trend per annum; and the economic growth in the Philippines from 1975-2000. It is intended to prove the primary hypothesis: The prevailing birth rate is a determining factor of the economic growth of a developing country. The hypothesis is based on the presumed benefits of being raised in households with fewer children, where the individual children have more access to both material resources and parental attention. This is evident in third-world countries such as the Philippines, where resources are scarce. The researchers utilized the Internet as a means of acquiring data, and statistical software for generating equations for linear regression, Pearson correlation coefficient, and coefficient of determination. The results indicate that there is an inverse relationship between birth rate and economic indicator. The study concludes that the economy of the Philippines is gradually increasing and improving throughout the years, and as the economy progresses, people experience less idle time and even personal time.