Why are people poor? Social conditions and adolescents’ interpretations of the social contract

This chapter represents an attempt to answer this question in light of differences in adolescents' perceptions of the social contract-—that is, the bargain they believe exists between individuals and society. The principles of this contract are rooted in the everyday experiences of youth in poor versus those in more affluent communities in America. By virtue of their differential access to opportunities and social support, youth in these contrasting ecologies may develop divergent views of the social order. By focusing on the social isolation and lack of "safety nets" in poor, urban communities, the authors of this chapter posit that youth who hope to succeed under such conditions develop an intense awareness that self-reli­ ance is essential to individual success.