In some countries, many more people are choosing to live alone nowadays than in the past. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?

In recent years, it has become far more normal for people to live alone, particularly in large cities in developed countries. In my opinion,

this

trend could have both positive and negative consequences in equal measure.

This

rise in one-person households can be regarded as positive for both personal and broader economic reasons. On an individual level, people who choose to live alone may become more independent and self-reliant than those who live with other family members. A young adult who lives alone,

for example

, will need to learn to cook, clean, pay bills and manage his or her budget, all of which are valuable life skills. An increase in the number of

such

individuals can certainly be seen as a positive development. From an economic perspective, the trend towards living alone will result in greater demand for housing.

This

development is likely to promote the progress of relevant industries

such

as construction, materials, estate agents and a whole host of other companies that rely on homeowners to purchase their products or services.

However

, the personal and economic arguments given above can be considered from the opposite angle.

Firstly

, rather than the positive feeling of increased independence, people who live alone may experience feelings of loneliness, isolation and worry. They miss out on the emotional support and daily conversation that family or flatmates can provide, and they must bear the weight of all household bills and responsibilities; in

this

sense, perhaps the trend towards living alone is a negative one.

Secondly

, from a financial point of view, a rise in demand for housing is likely to push up property prices and rents.

Additionally

, while

this

may benefit some businesses, the general population, including those who live alone, will be faced with rising living costs. In conclusion, the increase in one-person households will have both beneficial and detrimental effects on individuals and on the economy.