Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography Practice Exam

Which stage of the demographic transition model typically coincides with high birth rates and high death rates?

1. Stage 1

2. Stage 2

3. Stage 3

4. Stage 4

The correct answer is: Stage 1

The stage of the demographic transition model that typically coincides with high birth rates and high death rates is Stage 1. In this stage, both the birth rate and death rate are elevated, resulting in a relatively stable population size. High birth rates often stem from a lack of access to family planning and the necessity for large families in agrarian societies, where children are seen as assets for labor. High death rates are prevalent due to limited medical knowledge, inadequate healthcare, and poor sanitation, leading to high levels of disease, malnutrition, and infant mortality. Together, these factors create a demographic environment where population growth is minimal, as the high rates of births are countered by equally high rates of deaths. This contrasts with later stages in the demographic transition model, where improvements in healthcare, sanitation, and economic development lead to declines in death rates while birth rates may remain high for a time, further contributing to population growth.