poverty Flashcards
(10 cards)
Q: What is the absolute poverty measure?
A: An absolute poverty measure sets a fixed threshold, below which survival is threatened. It is simple to interpret but does not account for the depth of poverty(poverty measurement).
Q: What is relative poverty?
A: Relative poverty measures poverty in relation to the standard of living in society, shifting with economic changes and making poverty appear higher compared to absolute measures(poverty measurement).
Q: What is the Supplemental Poverty Measure (SPM)?
A: The SPM accounts for non-cash transfers (like SNAP), adjusts for cost of living geographically, and deducts taxes, aiming to better reflect modern living costs(poverty measurement).
Q: Describe the “culture of poverty” theory.
A: This theory suggests that poverty creates unique coping behaviors that become a persistent cultural trait, potentially passed down generations(poverty measurement).
Q: What does the situational view of poverty emphasize?
A: This view argues that the poor may behave differently due to lack of resources or opportunity, reacting realistically to constraints rather than due to inherent characteristics(poverty measurement).
Q: Explain the structural view of poverty.
A: The structural view attributes poverty to economic and political structures, such as labor market conditions, rather than individual traits of the poor(poverty measurement).
Q: What role does race and ethnicity play in poverty?
A: Discrimination, racial segregation, and factors like deindustrialization disproportionately affect minorities, often limiting their job opportunities and income(poverty measurement).
Q: How does gender relate to poverty?
A: Women, especially single mothers, are more likely to be in poverty due to lower wages, limited job opportunities, and cultural expectations around caregiving(poverty measurement).
Q: What are economic reasons for poverty?
A: Expanding economies can reduce poverty, but only if the wealth created is equitably shared. Otherwise, high inequality can still leave many in poverty(poverty measurement).
Q: What is the “blaming the poor” perspective on poverty?
A: This perspective holds individuals responsible for their poverty, attributing it to personal failings like lack of effort or thrift(poverty measurement).
