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

One social group more likely to experience poverty is lone-parent families, the majority of whom are headed by women. This is because they have only one adult income to support the family, which is often lower due to the gender pay gap. Furthermore, the high cost and limited availability of childcare can make it difficult for the lone parent to work full-time, further reducing their household income.

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*.

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Identify and describe one example of a social group who are more likely to experience poverty.

How to approach this question

Full Answer

Common mistakes

Practice the full AQA GCSE Sociology Paper 2

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