Ruby K. Payne, author of Understanding Poverty, defines poverty as “the extent to which an individual does without resources.” However, many people overlook the types of resources other than money that one needs. In addition to financial resources, a person needs the following resources as well:
- emotional: an internal resource involving the ability to choose and control emotional responses, especially in negative situations, and is evidenced in stamina, perseverance, and choices.
- mental: intellectual ability and acquired skills (reading, writing, computing) needed for daily life.
- spiritual: a belief in one’s purpose and/or connection with divine guidance.
- physical: basic physical health and mobility.
- support systems: such as friends, family, and other resources available in times of need.
- role models/relationships: having frequent access to adults who are appropriate, nurturing (especially if dealing with children), and do not engage in self-destructive behavior.
- knowledge of hidden rules: all groups have unspoken cues and habits which are beneficial and necessary to learn.
Ms. Payne focuses primarily on assisting children, though these resources are universal. For more information about her work, visit a-ha! Process, Inc.
Update: I have received numerous requests in comments and email asking me to send additional material to students doing projects on poverty. Please note that I not an expert on the issue. The purpose of this blog is to provide links to items of interest so as to encourage the reader’s exploration. The sources I use are the same as those the reader would — by researching the Internet.
DMS student of good governance
Im a 1st year student in I.T.B , Dublin and i was just wondering if you could send me some info on poverty in relation to crime or social disorderand your opinion on weather you think poverty is a direct contributer to social disorder. I would be very gtrateful if you can.
Janice
Janice — I’m not an expert on the topic of poverty. One of the purposes of this blog is to provide information with links to resources on topics of interest, to assist other people in their learning. I’m sure you can find a wealth of information at the site I linked to in this post. A Google search will also bring you many results that you can use. Best of luck.
plz need information on definitions and intro to poverty
Hi could you please send me some info on poverty.. The definition, types or how poverty affects the mental health of a person.. I would really appreciate it thank you.
Hi, i am a 4th year student doing a dissertation on pro-poor tourism. As part of this i need to define and discuss poverty. i would be very greatful if you could send me some more information on poverty. Thank you
I am a first year student.Could need you please send me some information on poverty.That is, definition of poverty,types, and the influence of poverty on health and health care. I would really appreciate it. Thanks.