Understanding Poverty as Social and Economic Enigma: Exploration through Qualitative Research Method

Abstract

Poverty has posed enormous challenge to many nations and the governments of many developing countries have taken extra initiatives to develop strategic poverty reduction programs. However despite of all such measures this enigma is still intractable. There is a constant need to understand the nature, dynamics and causes of poverty in order to overcome and eradicate this menace. Therefore this study aims to examine the perception of poor people for being poor and also to examine the factors and reasons of poverty. This research draws on qualitative research method and observations since the individual interviews of 10 participants were conducted who had the earning of Rs.15000 per month. As a result this study captured the deprived people who felt being underprivileged and almost had no access to the basic needs e.g. food, house, clothing, education health facilities and many physiological needs. So much so that increasing level of societal injustice between rich and poor is constantly observed and this disparity results in the frustration and tension owing to which the poor people start taking drugs and involve in criminal activities. During the interview the respondents suggest that government should play a vital role in improving the quality of life of poor people.