väestönmuutoksen

Väestönmuutos, often translated as demographic transition, is a fundamental model describing the historical shift in population patterns observed in most developed countries. It outlines the movement from a state of high birth rates and high death rates to a state of low birth rates and low death rates. This transition typically occurs in several stages.

The first stage is characterized by high fertility and high mortality, resulting in slow population growth. Widespread disease, famine, and limited access to healthcare contribute to high death rates, while cultural norms and the need for agricultural labor support high birth rates. In the second stage, mortality rates begin to decline due to improvements in sanitation, nutrition, and medicine. Birth rates remain high, leading to a period of rapid population growth.

The third stage sees a significant decline in fertility rates. Factors contributing to this include increased urbanization, greater access to education for women, and the availability of contraception. As birth rates fall closer to death rates, population growth slows down. In the final stage, both birth and death rates are low, resulting in stable or even declining population growth. This is often associated with aging populations and lower dependency ratios. While the model provides a general framework, the specific timing and characteristics of the demographic transition can vary between countries and regions.