Developed Countries

Geography: KS3, topic 4.1.8

Population Structure in Developed Countries

The population structure of a country is usually linked to its level of development. Developed countries have a low birth rate, a low death rate and a high life expectancy.

Birth rate

Birth rate

  • In developed countries, there is a low birth rate.
  • This is due to a number of factors:
    • More women are pursing a career and so having children at an older age, and having fewer.
    • Also, people recognise how expensive it is to bring children up and so have fewer to be able to afford to provide a better quality of life for them.
Death rate and infant mortality

Death rate and infant mortality

  • In developed countries, the death rate is low.
  • This is because developed countries have effective healthcare systems that can cure diseases and ensure that fewer people die each year.
  • The infant mortality rate is low because very few children die before their first birthday.
Life expectancy

Life expectancy

  • In developed countries, the life expectancy is high.
  • People are educated and aware of what a healthy lifestyle is and so are able to take steps to ensure that they live longer.

Test yourself on Developed Countries

  • What is common in a developed country?

  • What is common in a developed country?

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