Registered Environmental Manager (REM) Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a stage of the demographic transition model?

1. High stationary

2. Early expanding

3. Middle fluctuating

4. Late expanding

The correct answer is: Middle fluctuating

The demographic transition model describes the transition of countries from high birth and death rates to lower birth and death rates as they develop economically. This model is typically divided into five stages: 1. High stationary: Characterized by high birth and death rates, resulting in stable population numbers. 2. Early expanding: Marked by a decline in death rates, while birth rates remain high, leading to population growth. 3. Late expanding: In this stage, birth rates begin to decline as societies become more urbanized and women have more access to education and employment, leading to a slowing rate of population growth. 4. Low stationary: Both birth and death rates are low, resulting in a stable population at a high level. The "middle fluctuating" stage is not recognized within this model, which is why it is identified as the one that does not belong. This clarification helps to underscore the importance of understanding the established framework of demographic transition rather than suggesting stages that do not fit within that context.