This document discusses poverty, including its causes, effects, and perpetuating cycle. It defines absolute and relative poverty. The causes of poverty discussed include theories that blame the poor's behaviors and mindsets. The effects of poverty on children include higher rates of health, developmental, educational, and behavioral problems. Poverty also increases stress on families and risk of abuse. The cycle of poverty occurs when those in poverty lack the resources to escape it, trapping individuals and families in long-term deprivation.