Introduction
Nowadays, there is a broad discussion on the nature of means-tested programs. While they target the poor and provide the necessary assistance for those in need, such programs are surrounded by unappealing public attitudes. People who receive certain benefits from available programs undergo unfair contempt for being lazy or having low social responsibility. Such stigma creates tension among the disadvantaged population and influences their mindset and behavior.
Main body
The people who need any form of social support start to feel ashamed for not being as financially independent as others. Unfortunately, this stigma is based on the widespread criticism of welfare programs for stimulating the so-called dependency culture. People receiving help are considered idle, with no motivation to work and earn money on their own. Thus, others view them as dependants who rely on the government to provide for their wellbeing.
Such an approach is rather conservative and does not possess any evidential value. On the contrary, studies show that ensuring consistent financial assistance to citizens with low income not only provides children with education and improves their general health but also increases working productivity in adults (Hanna, 2019). It happens because the financial stability created by regular payments motivates people to put effort into sustaining a decent lifestyle.
Conclusion
To sum up, the stigma is powerful even now, when enough controversial evidence was presented to the public. As a result, it is only natural that people in need try to avoid stigmatization and unpleasant comments by not enrolling in the welfare programs in the first place, creating even more tension around their unstable financial situation. It is unacceptable to judge people based on their social position and deprive them of their right to have a decent life. Thus, when working with people who need assistance, it is necessary to encourage them to consider the social welfare programs available for them to make their financial burden less heavy.
Reference
Hanna, R. (2019). Dispelling the myth of welfare dependency. Harvard Kennedy School. Web.