THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVES - SITUATIONAL CONSTRAINTS

Who is the proponent of the Situational Constraints Theory?

Elliot Liebow with his study Tally’s Corner where he examine ‘black street corner men’

What is the basic assumption of the Situational Constraints Theory?

The theory argues that the behavior of the poor is shaped by situational constraints rather than internalized cultural patterns. Therefore, once the situation changes the behavior of the poor changes as well

How does this theory differ from the "culture of poverty" argument?

Unlike the "culture of poverty" argument, which claims that poverty is based on internalized cultural values, the Situational Constraints Theory asserts that poverty-related behaviors result from current economic conditions. The poor has the same values as mainstream society but are unable to make it a reality.

What were Liebow’s key findings about employment and economic struggles?

• These men sought stable jobs, however were mostly unemployed, underemployed, or in low-paying, dead-end jobs.

• They wanted better but lacked the skills, qualifications, and experience needed.

• Both employers and employees disrespected low-wage jobs.

Why did the men in Liebow’s study spend money impulsively or quit jobs unexpectedly?

They saw no hope for the future. Unlike middle-class men, who could save and invest in their future, the street corner men did not have anything to save and so they spent it on their most immediate needs.

How did financial instability impact family life?

• The men valued traditional family roles but lacked the income to support a wife and children.

• Due to this many deserted their families because of the feelings of failure.

• They then sought companionship with other men in similar situations as them.

What is the "Theory of Many Flaws" in Liebow’s work?

The men found ways to justified their failures, find respect, prestige and manliness by boasting about:

• Sexual conquests

• Gambling

• Other risky behaviors

Why did Liebow argue that matrifocal families were a result of economic necessity rather than culture?

He stated that marriages failed primarily due to financial hardship. Men deserted their families because they could not provide, leading to the rise of matrifocal households.

How did Ulf Hannerz evaluate the Situational Constraints Theory?

Hannerz provided a middle ground between the "Culture of Poverty" and Situational Constraints Theory. He argued that:

• Initially, men adapted their behavior to their economic conditions.

• Over time, these behaviors became cultural and were passed down through generations.

• Due to this created culture even if their economic situation improved, cultural barriers could delay change.

What was Hannerz’s conclusion on situational constraints versus cultural patterns?

He concluded that at the end of the day situational constraints are more powerful in shaping the behavior of the poor than cultural patterns.