Question

Examine three stages of demographic transition theory.

Hint:

The demographic transition model is important for understanding population growth and the development challenges that countries face at different stages of their demographic transitions.

Answer 1

The Demographic Transition Theory explains the transition from high birth and death rates to low birth and death rates as a country develops. It consists of four main stages, but we are focusing on the first three stages.
Stage 1: High Stationary Stage
In this stage, both birth and death rates are high. This results in a stable or slow-growing population. The high birth rate is due to the lack of family planning, high infant mortality, and agricultural economies where children are seen as assets. The high death rate is due to diseases, poor medical care, and famine. This stage is typically seen in pre-industrial societies. Stage 2: Early Expanding Stage
In this stage, the death rate begins to fall rapidly due to improvements in sanitation, healthcare, and nutrition. However, the birth rate remains high, leading to rapid population growth. This stage is often seen in countries that are beginning to industrialize, like those in sub-Saharan Africa. Stage 3: Late Expanding Stage
In this stage, the birth rate starts to decline as a result of improvements in education, family planning, and economic changes. People start to have fewer children, as they realize the economic benefits of a smaller family. This stage is seen in countries that are more economically developed, such as Brazil and India. Thus, demographic transition theory explains how societies evolve from high fertility and mortality rates to low fertility and mortality rates, correlating with economic development and technological progress.