Definition
The poverty status specifically of households that do not include any individuals related by birth, marriage, or adoption (e.g., a person living alone, or a group of unrelated roommates).
Why It Matters
This metric specifically highlights the economic vulnerability of individuals or groups living outside traditional family structures. It identifies unique needs related to housing, social support, and access to services for nonfamily households in poverty.
Specific Relevance for Professionals:
Marketers
Helps identify segments in poverty who are single individuals or groups of unrelated adults, influencing the development of products or services (e.g., affordable housing for singles, basic essentials for individuals) tailored to their unique needs and budget constraints.
Researchers
Fundamental for studying poverty among individuals living alone, cohabitation patterns, and the effectiveness of social safety nets in supporting nonfamily households, offering insights into evolving societal structures.
Consultants
Useful for advising clients on social impact strategies or services aimed at supporting single individuals or unrelated groups in economic distress, helping to assess market needs for non-family oriented social programs.
Public Policy Workers
Critical for designing social welfare programs, housing assistance (e.g., support for single adults), and community services that address the specific economic vulnerabilities faced by individuals living outside traditional family structures.
