Final answer:
Present-orientedness is a characteristic of the culture of poverty, with individuals focusing more on immediate needs than future planning.
Step-by-step explanation:
One characteristic of the culture of poverty is present-orientedness. This term refers to the tendency of individuals and communities living in poverty to focus on immediate survival and daily needs rather than long-term planning and future investments. This is often a result of the precarious nature of their lives where uncertainty about basic needs can constrain their ability to think ahead. In contrast, optimism, planning for the future, and conspicuous consumption are generally not recognized as characteristics of the culture of poverty.
Circumstances such as lack of resources, unstable housing, heavy reliance on agriculture, and health and education issues further entrench this present-oriented perspective, making it difficult for those in poverty to invest in their futures.