Stage 1 of the demographic transition is characterized by what factors?

Stage 1 of the demographic transition model is characterized by high fertility and mortality rates. During this stage, both birth and death rates are elevated, which results in relatively stable population numbers. High mortality rates are often due to factors like disease, famine, and lack of medical knowledge, leading to a high number of deaths, especially in infants and children. At the same time, high fertility rates can be observed as families tend to have many children in hopes that some will survive to adulthood.

This combination of high fertility and high mortality creates a demographic balance where the overall population growth is minimal. The lack of access to healthcare, sanitation, and nutrition contributes to the high mortality rates. However, societal norms and economic factors often encourage large families, contributing to high birth rates. Understanding this stage is crucial for recognizing how populations evolve through subsequent stages, where improved healthcare and living conditions gradually lead to decreased mortality and changes in fertility rates.