Demographic Trends Chapter 36

Demography The study of human population statistics Affected by birth, death, immigration & emigration rates IR & ER often similar Population size depends on BR – DR + IR- ER A demographic transition model shows population growth with cultural development

Population pyramids Represents population structure with respect to age and sex Used for predicting future population structure Also indicates future needs of the populace Developing countries – lots of young dependants Developed countries – more elderly dependants Some gender imbalances can be seen

Population Control Human population growing exponentially Eventually global carrying capacity could be reached Planet will be unable to support any further population increase Limiting factors could regulate population (increased death rate) Deer population used as a model

Birth Control / Morals Birth control is most realistic option for population control But differences in: - religious beliefs - medical care standards - economic situation - cultural/social backgrounds - education - status of women - morality of birth control imposition all affect the effectiveness of birth control Family planning needs social & economic support Population control biggest problem facing mankind