Intersectionality the Link Between Poverty and Homelessness

Intersectional Analysis

The link between poverty and homelessness

Capitalism

Capitalism can perpetuate the divide between the haves and have-nots of society. An employer does not want to advance the personal enrichment of his or her employees. Rather, he or she wants to advance his or her own business. Without government sanctions, employers will pay their employees less than living wages. Employers such as Wal-Mart frequently deny adequate benefits to employees by hiring many workers and forcing them to work part-time hours, which means they are not eligible for company healthcare, pensions, and other 'perks' like full-time employees (Smith 2011).

The culture of capitalism also creates a perception that individuals may have more money to spend than they do. Some people have a certain level of middle-class wealth that is inherited that enables them to dress well, mix within certain social sectors, and go to the right schools. However, other people who rub shoulders with such individuals in a capitalist society may not fully appreciate the degree to which this type of 'good start' on life is helpful. Because everyone seems to be buying nice clothes, going to expensive colleges, and buying fancy houses, poorer members of society may do so as well, and become indebted (Cole 2008). Bad credit ratings can make it more difficult to get jobs.

For those who are not privileged, who did not go to the right schools, or who grew up in environments with negative role models and influences, overcoming their upbringings are often even more challenging. Employers may not hire anyone deemed to be a liability, and thus getting a 'second chance' without the help of powerful and influential friends can prove to be virtually impossible.

Ableism

Ableism is the assumption that there is a single profile of 'ability' that is superior to other types of ability. For example, it is assumed that persons with physical or mental challenges cannot give back to society. However, poorly-funded assistance programs can exacerbate the problems of mental illnesses. Once again, class may play a factor. An individual suffering from autism or drug addiction that is born to a wealthy household and is being treated by a wealthy school district will often have greater resources than a person who is poor, and located within a poorer area. Not only will they find it more difficult to thrive, but society will likely judge them more harshly. Individuals are likely to internalize such stereotypes, which can affect their sense of self-worth. Poor self-worth is linked to a lack of opportunities as well, as an individual may not set high educational and vocational goals for themselves.

Gender