Final answer:
The demographic transition model describes how a country's population growth changes from high birth and death rates to low rates as the country economically develops, encompassing four stages leading up to stable or declining population growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding the Demographic Transition Model
The demographic transition is a multistage model that describes the changes in population growth that typically occur as a country develops economically. This transition involves a shift from high birth and death rates to lower birth and death rates. It is generally outlined in four stages:
Stage 1: High Birth and Death Rates - This stage is characterized by a balance between birth and death rates, leading to a stable but low population growth.
Stage 2: High Birth Rates and Falling Death Rates - Improved medical care and sanitation lead to a rapid decline in the death rate, while birth rates remain high, causing the population to surge.
Stage 3: Declining Birth and Death Rates - Birth rates start to fall as a result of changes in societal values, increased access to contraception, and economic improvements. The population growth slows down.
Stage 4: Low Birth and Death Rates - Both birth and death rates reach a low level, stabilizing the population growth. Some regions, such as Europe, are now considering the potential for a Stage 5, where the birth rate declines even further and may lead to a shrinking population.
The demographic transition model highlights how population growth is affected over time by changes in birth and death rates. It has been a useful tool in understanding historical population changes, especially in Western Europe, and is still relevant for analyzing trends in developing nations today.