Which social trend is prevalent among women in Japan affecting birth rates?

The increase in marriage age among women in Japan is a significant social trend that directly influences birth rates. As women in Japan choose to marry later in life, they often delay childbearing as well. This delay contributes to a decrease in the number of children born, as there are fewer childbearing years available. Additionally, many women prioritize their education and careers before settling down and starting families, which reflects a shift in societal values and expectations around gender roles and family structure.

In contrast, options that suggest higher birth rates in women's early twenties, decreased access to contraception, or a widespread support for extended families do not capture the complexities of the current demographic trends in Japan. For example, birth rates from younger age groups have been declining, and access to contraception has generally improved over the years, enabling women to make informed choices about family planning. The structure of family dynamics has also evolved, with a trend towards smaller households instead of large extended families, further influencing birth rates.