The pre-transfer poverty rate is the estimated poverty rate that would exist in the absence of government transfers. The pre-transfer poverty rate has been rising since 1973. The poor are hurt disproportionately by unemployment. The feminization of poverty. There has been a significant growth in the percent of people living in female-headed families.
Divorce reduces family income.
More difficult for unmarried mothers to collect child support. Higher than average unemployment rates among single mothers. These groups may be more likely to experience discrimination. Types of discrimination. Employment discrimination the unequal treatment of persons on the basis of their sex, race, or other personal characteristics, which restricts their employment and earning opportunities compared to others of similar productivity.