Over-population was once a serious problem in China, but the 'one-child' policy has gone a long way in easing the situation. But why, in Hong Kong, do many parents prefer a small family when there are no restrictions in the SAR? A one-child family has a lighter financial burden. It is hard to imagine how poor couples can afford the expenses of raising more than one child. Love is equally as important in bringing up a child, and parents of an only child may be able to pay more attention and provide better care. However, some parents may spoil their only offspring. They give the child everything money can buy, making the child self-centred. Besides, an only child has little chance to communicate and interact with others. It is a kind of emotional deprivation. In short, although one child means a lighter financial burden and better care, such a child may become spoiled. The trend in many prosperous countries to limit families to two children may be the best answer to avoid the problems without destroying the advantages of the one-child family. Pearl is a student at NT Heung Yee Kuk Yuen Long District Secondary School
