Poverty, Work, and the Economy

The topic of poverty, work, and the economy explores how social systems and structures affect people’s opportunities, income, and quality of life. Poverty remains one of the most persistent social problems in the United States and is often shaped by larger economic systems that influence employment, wages, and education. When jobs are scarce or pay low wages, individuals and families face challenges meeting their basic needs. Sociologists study these patterns to understand how inequality develops and why certain groups are more vulnerable to economic hardship than others.

From a sociological perspective, functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism each provide a different way to understand poverty and work. Functionalists believe that inequality serves a purpose by motivating people to fill different roles in society and keeping the economy running. Conflict theorists argue that poverty results from power differences where the wealthy control resources and limit opportunities for the poor. Symbolic interactionists focus on how people’s daily interactions, beliefs, and identities are shaped by their social class and work experiences. Together, these perspectives help explain not only why poverty exists but also how it affects people’s lives on both a large and small scale.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau (2020), the national poverty rate was 11.4 percent, representing about 37.2 million Americans. The data show clear patterns based on race, gender, and family structure. For example, African Americans and Latinx individuals have poverty rates nearly three times higher than White, non-Latinx individuals. Women, especially single mothers, are more likely to experience poverty compared to men. These statistics help sociologists understand how structural inequality and discrimination continue to affect access to stable employment and economic security. This data also connects to course concepts such as stratification, economic opportunity, and social mobility.


Local organizations like the Central Brevard Sharing Center help provide food and housing support to families in need.

One local organization working to reduce poverty in my community is the Central Brevard Sharing Center ⇗. Their mission is to provide emergency assistance to individuals and families in need through food, clothing, financial help, and access to social services. They serve low-income residents across Brevard County and partner with local churches, businesses, and volunteers to fight hunger and homelessness. The organization reports serving thousands of families each year, offering both short-term relief and long-term support through case management and job assistance programs. By providing resources that help meet basic needs, organizations like this reduce the impact of poverty and strengthen community well-being.

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