In the fourth stage of the demographic transition, which demographic pattern is typical?

In the fourth stage of the demographic transition, which demographic pattern is typical?

• A. High birth rates
• B. Declining population growth with more elderly than young
• C. High infant mortality
• D. Population growth remains steady

Answer: (B)

Stage four is defined by low birth rates and low death rates, so population growth slows to a near standstill. With fewer births but people living longer, the age structure shifts toward older ages, resulting in more elderly people than young. This leads to a pattern of declining population growth with an aging population, which is why that option is the best fit. The other patterns—high birth rates, high infant mortality, or steady population growth—do not describe this stage.

Stage four is defined by low birth rates and low death rates, so population growth slows to a near standstill. With fewer births but people living longer, the age structure shifts toward older ages, resulting in more elderly people than young. This leads to a pattern of declining population growth with an aging population, which is why that option is the best fit. The other patterns—high birth rates, high infant mortality, or steady population growth—do not describe this stage.