Abstract

This paper proposes an alternative way of measuring multidimensional poverty. Based upon a definition of poverty, it reviews how multidimensional poverty is measured today. Next, an alternative method is proposed and discussed. This method is then applied to the Belgian PSBH-data of 1998. In a first step, principal component analysis is used to surface three dimensions of poverty. These dimensions are roughly defined as "weak economic integration", "material poverty" and "low socio-psychological well-being". For each household, component scores are calculated. In the second step, households are grouped on the basis of these scores. This is done by cluster analysis. About 8% of the 1998-sample of households can be considered poon The characteristics of these poor households are considered next, and a comparison with low-income households is made.

How to Cite:

Dekkers, G., (2003) “Multidimensionele armoede in België”, Tijdschrift voor Sociologie 24(1), 63–93. doi: https://doi.org/10.21825/sociologos.86573