Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

Which scenario best illustrates crisis poverty within the homeless population?

1. Man with chronic alcoholism living in a halfway house

2. Recently unemployed man evicted from his apartment

3. Teenager living on the streets and abusing drugs

4. Woman with schizophrenia living in a shelter

The correct answer is: Recently unemployed man evicted from his apartment

The scenario that best illustrates crisis poverty within the homeless population is one in which the individual has recently experienced a significant and often sudden change in their economic situation, leading to homelessness. In this case, the recently unemployed man who has been evicted from his apartment represents a clear instance of crisis poverty. This situation highlights the precarious nature of housing and employment; losing a job can swiftly lead to financial instability and homelessness, especially if the individual lacks savings or a support system to rely on during this transition. Crisis poverty typically occurs when individuals face urgent life circumstances that overwhelm their ability to maintain stable housing. Unlike chronic homelessness, which can be linked to long-term issues such as addiction or mental health disorders, crisis poverty represents a more immediate reaction to sudden changes in circumstances. Other scenarios presented, such as individuals with chronic alcoholism, mental health issues, or substance abuse problems, typically illustrate ongoing struggles rather than the acute disruption of circumstances associated with crisis poverty.