What does the demographic transition model describe?

The demographic transition model describes the changes in birth and death rates that societies experience as they progress through different stages of development. This model illustrates how societies transition from high birth and death rates typical of pre-industrial societies to lower birth and death rates seen in more industrialized nations.

In the initial stages, both birth and death rates are high, leading to a relatively stable population. As a society develops, improvements in healthcare, sanitation, and nutrition typically lead to a decline in death rates. Over time, as social and economic conditions continue to change, birth rates also begin to decline, resulting in a population growth that stabilizes or even declines in post-industrial societies.

This model helps to explain demographic shifts over time within various contexts and allows for the prediction of population trends based on development status. Understanding these trends is crucial for addressing issues such as resource allocation, urban planning, and social services.