Shoushika: Perspectives from five Japanese women at Kanda University of International Studies

Abstract

Shoushika or decreasing birth rate is a problem that has become a phenomenon in Japan and has not been resolved to date. There is a lot of research that focuses on the shoushika problem, its causes, and government policies as a solution. However, this problem cannot be seen from just one side because it is a complex problem and requires review from various points of view. Based on this, the aim of writing this scientific work is to complete the view about shoushika and its causes as well as the policies that have been implemented from the perspective of Japanese women, especially female students at Kanda University of International Studies.The method used in this research is a qualitative research method, because the process used to obtain data was carried out through in-depth interviews with five female students as resource persons. The data obtained shows that there are concerns in the future for the five interviewees as a result of shoushika. Then the causes that have a direct impact according to the five sources and opinions regarding government policies, both regional and central government. Based on the data that has been discussed and analyzed in the writing of this scientific work, it is concluded that there needs to be awareness from all related parties, including the Japanese population, both men and women. Then there needs to be more proactive action from local and central governments as well as companies in Japan to support resolving this problem.