Structural Inequalities

A noticeable social disparity that has caught my attention in my community revolves around the insufficient support provided to single-parent households and families with disabled children. Currently, I volunteer at a food pantry that is supplied by donations and the affiliated garden. Families visit the pantry and select items that align with their dietary needs and preferences. This experience has allowed me to forge connections and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by families in need within my local area. I have discovered that single-parent households with multiple children and those with disabled children encounter significant difficulties in meeting their family’s requirements. The additional care and attention that children and disabled individuals require make it challenging for single parents to juggle employment and fulfill their family’s financial needs. Another prominent issue many parents confront, particularly when striving to meet their family’s financial obligations, is the cost of local daycares and child care services. These steep expenses further compound the burdens faced by families, making it challenging for parents to secure suitable care while they work. Overall, the lack of assistance and the financial strains experienced by single-parent households and families with disabled children are striking examples of the structural inequalities present in our community.

Capstone Project Update! While I still intend to explore the correlation between socioeconomic status and perspectives on healthcare, my passion for pediatrics and the ongoing discussions on vaccines in our society have sparked a new line of inquiry. I have begun contemplating the connection between a parent’s decision to vaccinate their children and their socioeconomic status. I am curious to investigate whether there is any relationship between the two. This is my current train of thought for now.