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Define ‘poverty’ - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 3(a) - 2022
Question 3(a)
Define ‘poverty’. Explain each of the following: - relative poverty - absolute poverty. Describe four reasons why poverty continues to be a feature in moder... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Define ‘poverty’ - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 3(a) - 2022
Step 1
Define ‘poverty’.
Answer
Poverty can be defined as the condition where individuals lack the financial resources necessary to meet basic living requirements. This includes not having adequate food, clothing, or shelter, which hinders individuals from maintaining a standard of living that is acceptable within society. Poverty often results from inadequate income and resources, marginalizing people from participating fully in community activities.
Step 2
Explain each of the following: relative poverty.
Answer
Relative poverty is defined as living below what society recognizes as a basic standard of living. It encompasses individuals or families whose income is less than 50% of the average household income. This type of poverty does not only limit financial resources but also restricts participation in social activities and community life, preventing individuals from accessing opportunities and resources that contribute to a full life. Those experiencing relative poverty may find it difficult to engage in leisure activities or even afford necessary provisions, resulting in social exclusion.
Step 3
Explain each of the following: absolute poverty.
Answer
Absolute poverty is a more severe form of poverty. It refers to a situation where an individual or household cannot meet their basic needs for survival, such as food, clothing, and shelter. This situation leaves a person unable to fulfill essential requirements for life, such as having enough food to eat or a place to sleep. Absolute poverty often leads to severe deprivation and makes it extremely difficult for individuals to improve their situation, as they struggle to survive day-to-day without sufficient resources.
Step 4
Describe four reasons why poverty continues to be a feature in modern Irish society.
Answer
- Social Problems: Issues such as social policy failures, economic recession, and rising unemployment contribute to the persistence of poverty.
- Family Structures: Increasing numbers of one-parent and blended families often face economic disadvantages, leading to higher poverty rates among these groups.
- Cost of Living: The continuous increase in the cost of living in Ireland outpaces income growth, making it difficult for many to manage basic expenses.
- Education and Low Incomes: Lack of access to education and low income levels among workers limit opportunities for many, thereby perpetuating cycles of poverty.
Step 5
Name and give details of one voluntary organisation that provides support to families at risk of poverty.
Answer
One notable organization is the St. Vincent de Paul Society. This organization primarily serves the most vulnerable members of the community, providing various forms of support, including financial assistance to alleviate immediate needs. They offer resources to combat social issues such as homelessness and poverty by providing housing, and food aid, and facilitating access to social care services. Their work includes outreach programs, support for families, and efforts to equip individuals with skills for employment, thereby addressing the root causes of poverty.