Final answer:
The higher poverty and child poverty rates in the U.S. compared to other advanced economies can be attributed to factors such as income inequality, stagnant wages, and demographic disparities. While poverty rates have fluctuated, the overarching trend is that certain groups, such as females, Hispanics, and African Americans, face higher levels of poverty. The U.S. combats absolute poverty with various social services, but challenges remain in reducing relative poverty and breaking the cycle of poverty for the youth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The poverty rate in the U.S., particularly the child poverty rate, is comparatively higher than in other advanced-economy nations due to a variety of reasons. Several economic factors contribute to this situation, including the inequitable distribution of income and wealth, the feminization of poverty, stagnant wages contrasted with soaring executive pay, and the decline of the middle class. Despite these challenges, most poverty in the U.S. is relative, not absolute, thanks to provisions like unemployment insurance, welfare, food assistance, and social security that protect citizens from the extremes of poverty.
Historical data on the U.S. poverty rate shows fluctuations over the years. The poverty rate saw a decline in the 1960s but increased in the early 1980s and the early 1990s. Since the mid-1990s, there has been a slight decrease. However, the rate has not fallen below 11% in the past four decades. Recent peaks were observed in 2011 at 15.9%, with a slight decrease to 14.5% by 2013. Notably, poverty rates are lower for whites, the elderly, the well-educated, and male-headed households, whereas they are significantly higher for females, Hispanics, and African Americans.
Concerns also arise from the geographic diversity of poverty rates across states and the impact of poverty on young Americans, cutting off access to education and services needed to achieve stable employment. Past measures to reduce elderly poverty have been successful, but child poverty remains a stubborn issue, with rates similar to those seen in 1970. While certain demographics like African Americans experience a higher percentage of poverty, the majority of those living below the poverty line in the U.S. are white, showing that poverty spans across various racial groups.