population trends: From 1950-1990, the population pyramids of Thailand changed completely. In 1950, the shape resembled a stage two country, but as years pass, the shape transforms into a stage three, then stage four country.
Historical explanation of population trends: In the 10 years between 1970 and 1980, the population of children 0-10 dropped 2%. This is because student riots broke out in 1973, causing the military to step in and take over. These riots caused the youth of Thailand to drop dramatically, but the other age groups didn't change as drastically. People of the age 40-54, only dropped .2%.
Demographic Transition Model: Thailand is a much more developed country than South Africa, primarily because they have more resources. In 2010, they are located in stage 3, at the end of a cultural lag, meaning both the birth and death rate has dropped significantly compared to stage 1 countries. In Thailand the percent of people living off 2 Us dollars a day is only 27%, compared to South Africa's 47%. This shows that jobs are more accessible. Women also have the opportunity to become more educated and choose to have a career over children, causing the birth rate to drop. The death rate drops due to the advanced medical resources of the wealthier country. The life expectancy rises by 21 years, causing the death rate to drop because people are able to treat sicknesses and injuries.