Identify and describe one example of a social group who are more likely to experience poverty.
How to approach this question
First, identify a specific social group known to have higher rates of poverty (e.g., lone-parent families, certain ethnic minorities, pensioners). Then, describe the reasons why this group is at a higher risk of poverty, using sociological concepts where possible.
Full Answer
Sociological research shows that the risk of poverty is not evenly distributed across the population. Certain social groups are more vulnerable. These include: lone-parent families (especially those headed by women), some ethnic minority groups (who may face discrimination in the labour market), disabled people (who may face barriers to employment and have extra costs), and pensioners (who rely on a fixed state pension). The reasons are complex and often involve a combination of economic, social, and political factors.
Common mistakes
Being too vague, for example saying 'poor people' are more likely to experience poverty. The question asks for a social *group*.