High population growth rates are a key focus in IB Geography, particularly within the Changing Population unit. Many low-income countries (LICs) experience rapid population growth, which creates both development opportunities and significant challenges. Explaining the causes of this growth is essential for exam success, as it links demographic theory with social, economic, and cultural factors.

One of the most important causes of high population growth in LICs is high fertility rates. Families often have many children due to cultural traditions, religious beliefs, and social expectations. In many LICs, large families are valued because children contribute to household labour, particularly in agricultural communities. Where formal employment and education opportunities are limited, having more children can be seen as a form of economic security.

Another key factor is limited access to contraception and family planning. In many LICs, contraceptives may be unavailable, unaffordable, or socially unacceptable. A lack of education about reproductive health further increases birth rates. As a result, couples may have little control over family size, leading to sustained natural increase.

Declining death rates also contribute to rapid population growth. Improvements in basic healthcare, vaccination programmes, and sanitation have reduced infant mortality and increased life expectancy in many LICs. However, birth rates often remain high, creating a large gap between births and deaths. This imbalance leads to rapid natural population increase.

The demographic transition model (DTM) helps explain this pattern. Most LICs are in Stage 2 of the model, where death rates fall quickly due to medical and technological improvements, while birth rates remain high. This stage is associated with the fastest population growth and is commonly referenced in IB Geography exam answers.

A further factor is the low status of women in many LICs. Limited access to education and employment reduces opportunities for women outside the home. Early marriage and limited decision-making power often result in higher fertility rates. Studies consistently show that when women are educated and economically active, family sizes tend to decrease.

Overall, high population growth rates in LICs are driven by a combination of cultural values, limited access to family planning, declining death rates, and social inequality. While population growth can provide a large future workforce, it can also place pressure on healthcare, education, housing, and employment.

RevisionDojo supports IB Geography students by breaking down these complex population processes into clear explanations and exam-ready insights, helping learners develop confident, well-structured answers.