本能に基づけば、人間というのは、12歳ごろから性に興味を持ち始める。社会的な規範では、20代前半から30歳くらいが結婚適齢期だと思うが、それよりもずっと早くに性に目覚める。実際、日本も江戸時代や明治時代は15歳で結婚する女性がいたようだ。アフリカの途上国ではそうした国がまだあるようだ。

ところが、今の社会的規範では、「学校教育を受けて、知識を身につけるべき」となっている。特に東京都心では、12歳は中学受験の年齢であり、恋愛などにかまけてはいられない。私立中学に入学後も、東大や医学部を目指してずっと勉強を続けなくてはならない。

私が大学生の頃は、大学生になってやっと恋愛ができる時代だった。だが、現在は「ジョブ型雇用」の就活に備えて、大学生もスペック向上の努力が欠かせないだろう。東大や早慶であっても、TOEICの点数が低かったり、資格を何も持っていなかったり、インターンシップに参加していないと、ろくな企業に入れない。

もう、社会的な規範のせいで恋愛や結婚が難しいのだという事実を直視してはどうか？特に中学や高校において、恋愛をするというのは、進学校では「悪を働いている」かのようにみなされるだろう。競争主義のために恋愛や結婚が犠牲になっている事実を直視しないと、いつまでたっても少子化は終わらないと思う。社会人になってから、つまり、会社に高卒で入社して、結婚して、子育てが落ち着いてから大学に進学する（夜間大学生または通信課程として）というのも良い方法だと思う。

The Mismatch Between Human Instincts and Social Norms: A Cause of Low Birth Rate in Japan

Introduction
Human beings are driven by innate instincts, one of which is the desire for sexual reproduction. This desire typically manifests itself around the age of 12, when puberty begins. However, social norms in modern Japan dictate a much later timeline for marriage and family formation. This mismatch between instinct and societal expectations has been identified as a contributing factor to the country's declining birth rate.
Body
In traditional Japanese society, marriage and childbearing were seen as natural and desirable outcomes of adulthood. During the Edo and Meiji periods, for example, it was not uncommon for girls to marry as early as 15 years old. Similar practices can still be found in some developing countries in Africa.
However, modern Japan has undergone significant social and economic changes that have reshaped the landscape of marriage and family. The emphasis on education and career development has led to a later age of marriage, typically in the late 20s or early 30s. This delay is particularly pronounced in urban areas like Tokyo, where the pressure to succeed in competitive academic institutions and the job market leaves little room for romantic pursuits.
The current educational system in Japan prioritizes academic achievement over personal development. Students in middle and high school, especially those attending prestigious schools, are often discouraged from engaging in romantic relationships, which are seen as a distraction from their studies. This focus on academic excellence comes at the expense of fostering healthy relationships and nurturing emotional maturity.
The competitive job market further exacerbates the problem. Recent graduates are expected to have high academic credentials, relevant work experience, and various qualifications to secure a decent job. This pressure leaves young people with little time or energy to invest in building romantic relationships or starting a family.
Conclusion
The mismatch between human instincts and social norms in Japan has created a significant barrier to marriage and family formation. The emphasis on education, career, and competition has delayed the age of marriage and reduced the overall desire to have children. To address the declining birth rate, it is crucial to reevaluate societal priorities and create a more supportive environment for young people to explore their romantic and familial aspirations.
Recommendations

• Introduce comprehensive sex education programs in schools that not only address biological aspects but also promote healthy relationships and responsible decision-making.

• Encourage a more holistic approach to education that values personal development and emotional intelligence alongside academic achievement.

• Promote flexible work arrangements and family-friendly policies to reduce the pressure on young couples and provide them with better support for balancing work and family life.

• Challenge the traditional gender roles and stereotypes that often place disproportionate childcare responsibilities on women.

By addressing these issues and fostering a more conducive environment for marriage and family, Japan can take steps towards reversing the trend of declining birth rates and ensuring a sustainable future for its society.