Cycle Of Deprivation - GCSE Sociology Definition

Reviewed by: Raj Bonsor

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The "cycle of deprivation" refers to the ongoing and self-perpetuating process where disadvantage and poverty pass from one generation to the next, often making it challenging to break free from poverty. In the context of GCSE Sociology, this term highlights how socio-economic factors like limited access to education, poor health, and unemployment can contribute to persistent deprivation.

Families trapped in this cycle may struggle to provide the necessary resources and opportunities for their children, potentially leading to similar outcomes in adulthood. By understanding this concept, students can explore the structural and individual factors that contribute to social inequality and examine ways to address these issues to promote social mobility.

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Raj Bonsor

Reviewer: Raj Bonsor

Expertise: Psychology & Sociology Content Creator

Raj joined Save My Exams in 2024 as a Senior Content Creator for Psychology & Sociology. Prior to this, she spent fifteen years in the classroom, teaching hundreds of GCSE and A Level students. She has experience as Subject Leader for Psychology and Sociology, and her favourite topics to teach are research methods (especially inferential statistics!) and attachment. She has also successfully taught a number of Level 3 subjects, including criminology, health & social care, and citizenship.

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