Sex ratio is defined as?

Appeared in: AIIMS BBSR SNO - 2019

Explanation

The standard definition of sex ratio, particularly in the context of Indian demography, is the number of females per 1000 males.
This ratio is a key indicator used in population studies to understand the balance between males and females in a society.
For instance, according to the 2011 Census of India, the sex ratio was 940, meaning there were 940 females for every 1000 males.
A ratio below 1000 indicates a deficit of females, while a ratio above 1000 indicates a surplus.

Option B: This option incorrectly defines the ratio as the number of males per 1000 females. The standard convention measures females relative to males.
Option C: This option uses an incorrect base of 100 individuals. The sex ratio is conventionally expressed per 1000 individuals to provide a clearer, more standardized measure.
Option D: This option is incorrect on two counts: it inverts the genders (males per females) and uses the wrong base number (100 instead of 1000).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definition of Sex Ratio as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
The sex ratio is a critical public health indicator reflecting the social status of women, gender equality, and societal preferences.
A low or declining sex ratio often points to serious social issues such as a strong preference for male children, female feticide, female infanticide, and neglect of the girl child, which are major concerns for community health nurses.
What if the question asked for 'Child Sex Ratio'? The definition would specifically refer to the number of female children per 1000 male children within the 0-6 year age group, a sensitive indicator of prenatal sex selection.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify that the question is asking for a standard definition from the field of demography.
Analyze the components of each option: the group being measured (females or males) and the base population (per 100 or per 1000).
Recall the conventional definition of sex ratio used in community health and population studies.
The standard definition is the number of females relative to a base of 1000 males.
Compare this recalled definition with the given options to find the exact match.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 1 — Subpart C (pp 404-604 of 604) p. 177-179

E6 Comprehensive Textbook of Community Health Nursing for BSc Nursing Students Part 2 — Subpart B (pp 276-535 of 550) p. 7-9

Practise the full AIIMS BBSR SNO - 2019

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.