AAMC FL Practice Exam

Which condition is NOT a characteristic of marginal poverty?

1. Lack of stable employment

2. High educational attainment

3. Unstable housing situations

4. Limited access to resources

The correct answer is: High educational attainment

Marginal poverty is typically characterized by individuals or families facing precarious living conditions, which include instability in employment, housing, and resources. In this context, high educational attainment is not a characteristic of marginal poverty. Individuals in marginal poverty often struggle with unstable employment and irregular income, which makes it difficult for them to achieve financial security. They frequently experience unstable housing situations, such as being at risk of eviction or living in temporary accommodations, and have limited access to essential resources like healthcare, nutritious food, and transportation, which further perpetuates their financial difficulties. High educational attainment, on the other hand, generally correlates with better job opportunities and financial stability. Thus, it stands out as not being a characteristic of marginal poverty, as those in marginal poverty tend to have less access to educational opportunities, which affects their ability to secure stable employment and improve their living conditions.