1
Please answer the following questions in reference to Chapter 3. Each question should have a separate response in paragraph format (5-7 sentences). DO NOT complete one long run-on paragraph while answering the discussion questions.
1. Discuss the differences between a relative and an absolute definition of poverty. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each?
2. Discuss how the US poverty threshold was originally determined. Does this method seem reasonable? Does the 2017 poverty threshold of $30,750 for a family of four seem reasonable? Why?
3. What is meant by the juvenilization of poverty? The feminization of poverty? Why is it important to understand these concepts?
4. Describe the basic social welfare programs that are in place to assist the poor. Describe the primary differences between AFDC and TANF. Were the changes made in 1996 desirable? Why or why not?
5. What role should social workers play in relation to poverty?
2
Please answer the following questions in reference to Chapter 3. Each question should have a separate response in paragraph format (5-7 sentences). DO NOT complete one long run-on paragraph while answering the discussion questions.
1. Why is it critical for social workers to identify environmental factors that disproportionately affect people of color and other nondominant groups?
2. In your own words, explain each: cultural destructiveness, cultural incapacity, cultural blindness, cultural precompetence, cultural competence, and cultural proficiency. Where do you think you fall in the six stages?
