Socioeconomic Stratification

Studies have documented that recent population decline in U.S. counties
has been exacerbated by economic recession, but there is a lack of
information about how to stabilize a declining population in a growing economy.
The purpose of this book was to measure participants perceptions of the
relationship between population decline and economic growth, employment, and
education in one northern US County. Smiths theory relating functional division
of labor to increases in wealth and Malthuss theory relating population change
and economic growth served as theoretical bases. This mixed-methods case
study used documents, a survey of 25 participants, and individual interviews
with 10 participants. Data were analyzed with ANOVAs, t tests, and linear
simple regressions. Survey results indicated that participants believed there was
a minimal to moderate correlation between population decline and economic
growth and that increased higher education opportunities in the community
could stabilize the population and create long-term economic growth. Some
participants were concerned that increased educational opportunities would
lead to overpopulation and a loss of traditional values, suggesting that efforts
should be made to help community members understand the value of higher
education as a population and economic stabilizer. This study can contribute to
positive social change by providing strategies for maintaining economic stability
in areas experiencing population decline.