Demographic Transition Model Questions Long
Stage 1 in the Demographic Transition Model (DTM) is characterized by high birth rates and high death rates, resulting in a relatively stable population size. This stage is often referred to as the pre-industrial stage or the pre-transition stage.
1. High birth rates: In Stage 1, birth rates are typically high due to several factors. Firstly, there is a lack of family planning and contraception methods, leading to larger families. Secondly, children are seen as an economic asset, particularly in agrarian societies, where they can contribute to the family's labor force. Lastly, high infant mortality rates also contribute to high birth rates, as families have more children to compensate for the likelihood of some not surviving.
2. High death rates: Similarly, Stage 1 is characterized by high death rates. These are primarily due to limited access to healthcare, inadequate sanitation, and poor nutrition. Infectious diseases, epidemics, and famines are common in this stage, leading to a high mortality rate, especially among infants and young children.
3. Low population growth: Despite high birth and death rates, the population growth rate in Stage 1 remains relatively low. This is because the high birth and death rates tend to balance each other out, resulting in a stable population size over time.
4. Short life expectancy: The combination of high death rates and limited access to healthcare and sanitation leads to a short life expectancy in Stage 1. People often die at a young age, and the average life expectancy is significantly lower compared to later stages of the DTM.
5. Agricultural society: Stage 1 is typically associated with agrarian societies, where the majority of the population is engaged in subsistence farming. The reliance on agriculture as the primary economic activity contributes to the high birth rates, as children are seen as a valuable labor force for farming activities.
6. Lack of industrialization: Another characteristic of Stage 1 is the absence of industrialization. The economy is primarily based on agriculture, and there is limited technological advancement or urbanization. This lack of industrialization also contributes to the high birth rates, as children are needed to support agricultural activities.
Overall, Stage 1 of the Demographic Transition Model is characterized by high birth and death rates, resulting in a relatively stable population size. The society is predominantly agrarian, with limited access to healthcare and sanitation, leading to a short life expectancy. Industrialization and urbanization are minimal in this stage.