Demographic Transition Model Questions
During the transition from Stage 1 to Stage 2 of the Demographic Transition Model, several significant demographic changes occur. In Stage 1, both birth rates and death rates are high, resulting in a relatively stable population size. However, as societies progress towards Stage 2, there are several key changes:
1. Decline in death rates: Improved healthcare, sanitation, and access to clean water lead to a decrease in mortality rates. This is often due to advancements in medical technology, vaccinations, and better living conditions. As a result, people live longer, and the overall population begins to grow.
2. High birth rates: Despite the decline in death rates, birth rates remain high during this transition. This is primarily due to cultural and social factors, such as a desire for larger families, lack of family planning, and limited access to contraceptives. Additionally, in agrarian societies, children are seen as an economic asset, leading to higher birth rates.
3. Rapid population growth: The combination of declining death rates and high birth rates leads to a rapid increase in population size. This growth can be exponential, as the number of individuals entering reproductive age exceeds those leaving it. Consequently, the population begins to experience a youth bulge, with a larger proportion of young individuals.
4. Shift towards urbanization: As societies transition from Stage 1 to Stage 2, there is often a shift from rural agrarian lifestyles to urbanized settings. This occurs as people move from rural areas to cities in search of better economic opportunities and improved living conditions. Urbanization is driven by industrialization and the growth of manufacturing sectors.
Overall, the transition from Stage 1 to Stage 2 of the Demographic Transition Model is characterized by a decline in death rates, high birth rates, rapid population growth, and a shift towards urbanization.