On 24 November 1989 the Canadian House of Commons unanimously passed an all-party resolution to eliminate poverty among Canadian children by the year 2000. Yet in 2005 a report by UNICEF placed Canada nineteenth in a ranking of the relative poverty of children in 26 of the world's richest countries (Greece, Hungary, and Poland all had a significantly better record). How can this be? This short and engaging book provides the latest research on child poverty by Canadian sociologist Patrizia Albanese. Looking at how many of Canada's children live in poverty, Albanese explores trends over time, across provinces, and among various groups. Her research reveals which children are most vulnerable and why, and describes the physical, behavioural, and educational impact of poverty. In clear terms Albanese presents some of the ways that poverty is measured in Canada and around the world, and considers the country in a global perspective to assess why it ranks so low on the international scale. Finally, she discusses how the events of 1989 have shaped the outcome of child poverty in Canada and evaluates the theories and possible solutions to the problem. Of interest to students of sociology, social work, and early childhood studies - and concerned readers alike - this important book provides a useful introduction to a topic of key importance. Readership : This will be an important text for students of sociology in Canada, as well as other social sciences (economics political science, education). Interested readers in the general trade will also be expected to read it; particularly in this economic downtown, it is an issue of growing concern. About the Issues in Canada Series: Addressing the key issues that challenge Canada today, these short books are written by experts to engage readers, explore debates, and evaluate solutions. Contents: List of Illustrations List of Tables Abbreviations Introduction 1. Defining and Measuring Child Poverty 2. Child Poverty Rates and Trends 3. Incomes and Outcomes: Impact of Poverty on Children 4. Exploring Causes I: Family and Neighbourhood Factors 5. Exploring Causes II: Canada's Changing Economy 6. Exploring Causes III: Canada's Changing and Unchanging Policies 7. International Comparisons and Accounting for the Differences 8. Solutions Proposed and Tested and Recommendations for Change Notes Further Reading References Index About the Author: Patrizia Albanese is an Associate Professor in the Department of Sociology, Ryerson University. She has done extensive research on the impact of the rise of nationalist regimes on gender and family policies in twentieth-century Europe. Her research interests include family policies, ethnic relations, gender and nationalism, and social inequality. |