What does the demographic transition model illustrate?

The demographic transition model illustrates the shift from high to low birth and death rates as a country progresses through various stages of economic and social development. This model describes how, in the initial stages, both birth and death rates are high, leading to relatively stable population sizes. As a country transitions through the stages of development, improvements in health care, sanitation, and education typically cause death rates to decline first, followed by a decline in birth rates. This results in a significant population growth during certain phases, eventually stabilizing at lower birth and death rates in the final stages.

By observing this model, researchers and policymakers can understand the population dynamics of different countries, including the challenges and opportunities that arise during the various stages of this transition. This provides a framework for analyzing how demographic changes relate to economic growth and societal change.