Poverty in Rural America: A Case Study

by Janet M. Fitchen

This case study of poverty in the contemporary United States examines a problem that is widespread but little run-down neighborhoods of intergenerational poverty scattered on the rural fringes of urban areas. Intertwining historical, economic, social, cultural, and psychological material and basing her work on a decade of participant observation, the author provides a new understanding of the lives and actions of nonfarm rural poor people and identifies the causes of their marginal situation. Beginning with a typical day in the life of one family, Dr. Fitchen illustrates in specific and personal terms the endemic problems--unsatisfactory employment, low and insecure income, social marginality, inadequate education, neglected health problems, substandard housing, and low self- esteem--that plague rural depressed areas. She describes the ways people perceive their problems and goals, the constraints they face, and the solutions they have developed, looking always for common patterns of thought and action--and an explanation of these patterns--that will be useful to students, practitioners, and policymakers. Among her conclusions are concrete suggestions for breaking the cycle of entrenched rural poverty.

257 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1981

Reviews

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

A way to get out of your head and be shown the realities of living on buffalo hill. The decline of community through the decline of small independent farms and community centers. Written about a area I lived for 7 years - showed me what I hadn't been able to see through my own eyes.