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Child Poverty Issues in the United States

Children living in poverty are at risk for educational, health, and emotional difficulties. According to the Center for American Progress, 20.7 percent of U.S. children lived in poverty as of 2009, and the poverty rate continued to increase as the economy declined. The American Psychological Association notes that African American, Native American, and Latino children, and those from single-parent and immigrant families, are at greatest risk for living in poverty.

  1. Physical Health Issues

    • According to the American Psychological Association, infants born in poverty often have low birth weight due to poor maternal nutrition or lack of prenatal care. Children who live in poverty may suffer from poor nutrition due to inadequate food supply. These kids may also have few places to play or get exercise which can lead to weight problems. Children in poverty are at higher risk for chronic health conditions like anemia, asthma, or pneumonia. These children are often exposed to violence in their communities which may result in injuries, disabilities, or even death. Children who experience poor living conditions may be exposed to environmental hazards like medical waste or lead paint. In the United States, lack of health care insurance puts many poor children at risk.

    Educational Issues

    • The APA reports that children who live in poverty are at risk for academic failure. The stresses of poverty can affect children's ability to concentrate and assimilate learning. The stress is often due to frequently changing schools or living conditions, lack of sleep due to poor living conditions, and lack of proper nutrition. Students who live in poverty are significantly more likely to drop out of school than other students. Because schools require birth certificates, Social Security cards, and immunization records, families who are homeless may have difficulty even enrolling children in school.

    Behavioral, Emotional, and Mental Health Issues

    • The APA also states that children raised in poverty are significantly more likely to suffer from emotional or behavioral problems than those who are not. Behavioral issues related to poverty include aggression, impulsivity, lack of social skills, conduct disorders, and ADHD. Emotional issues associated with poverty include depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Parental stress due to poverty may potentially expose children to domestic violence or substance abuse.

    Adult Outcomes

    • According to economist Caroline Ratcliffe and senior research associate Signe-Mary McKernan, authors of The Urban Institute's 2010 report "Childhood Poverty Persistence: Facts and Consequences," individuals who are raised in poverty are more likely to engage in risky behaviors with known health consequences, such as sexual promiscuity or smoking. Children raised in poverty are more likely to be poor as adults, to not complete high school, and to become an unmarried teen parents.

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