Population Cycle/DTM

Stage 1 (high stantionary)

Population growth is low - birth rates and death rates are high. Eg. Medieval Europe

Stage 2 (early expanding)

As countries develop economically, advances in medicine (eg. vaccines), food production and sanitation reduce death rates. However, birth rate remain high so the population grows rapidly. Eg. Nigeria.

Stage 3 (late expanding)

People are employed in primary and secondary jobs, becoming wealthier. Many decide to have fewer children due to an overall healthier population, economic development and improved access to education and contraception. The birth rate drops and natural increase slows. Death rates decrease as healthcare advances. The rate of population growth levels off. Eg. India

Stage 4 (low stationary)

The country is highly developed and urbanised. People are well nourished and healthy due to excellent medical, water, and sanitation facilities. Most are highly educated and in well paid secondary, tertiary or quantinary jobs. Birth rates are low as people choose to have small families to maintain their high standard of living. Death rates are low as people live for longer. Eg. Ireland

Stage 5 (declining)

Couples decide to have one or no children. The birth rate is lower than the death rate so there is a natural decrease in population. The population is high but begins to decrease, and the population is ageing. Eg. Japan

Demographic transition/population cycle

the pattern of population growth where birth and death rates shift from high to low as a country develops economically and socially, often represented in five staged. Eg. Brazil experienced rapid growth in the 20th century followed by falling birth rates as healthcare and education improved.