AAMC FL Practice Exam

What defines marginal poverty?

1. A dangerous lack of resources

2. Lack of stable employment

3. High levels of debt

4. Low income in a wealthy area

The correct answer is: Lack of stable employment

Marginal poverty is primarily characterized by a lack of stable employment. This type of poverty reflects not just a temporary financial setback but indicates a chronic inability to secure consistent work, leading to uncertainty about income. Individuals experiencing marginal poverty often cycle in and out of low-wage jobs without the stability necessary to build financial security, impacting their ability to meet basic needs over time. While other factors like a dangerous lack of resources, high levels of debt, and low income in a wealthy area can contribute to poverty levels, they do not encapsulate the core definition of marginal poverty. Instead, the defining aspect lies in its relation to employment stability and the ongoing challenges it poses for affected individuals.