Economic inequality

Economic inequality is the unequal distribution of income and opportunity between different groups in society. There are wide varieties of economic inequality, most notably income inequality measured using the distribution of income (the amount of money people are paid) and wealth inequality measured using the distribution of wealth (the amount of wealth people own).

Researchers have found higher rates of health and social problems and lower rates of social cohesion in countries and states with higher inequality.

Adapted from Wikipediaopens in new window

Resources from APA

Tip or skip? What drives our tipping behavior

Michael Lynn, PhD, discusses “tip creep” and how digital payment screens are reshaping expectations

Policy shifts are impacting psychologists’ ability to deliver care

Psychologists face mounting challenges to access, equity, and clinical integrity

South Carolina college students at risk of dropping out

“I worry about losing these students”

The psychology of wealth, empathy, and entitlement

Paul Piff, PhD, talks about money, fairness, and empathy

More resources about economic inequality

What APA is doing

Advocacy

Socioeconomic status

APA Services advocates for federal policies and programs that reduce poverty and inequality, addressing the needs of low-income and economically marginalized populations.

Effects of Poverty, Hunger and Homelessness on Children and Youth

Program offices

Office on Socioeconomic Status

The Office on Socioeconomic Status is responsible for directing, overseeing, facilitating, and promoting psychology’s contribution to the understanding of socioeconomic status and the lives and well-being of the poor.