Why is measuring poverty using an absolute income scale (like the poverty line) likely to be deceptive

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Measuring poverty solely based on an absolute income scale like the poverty line can be deceptive because it doesn't include the value of in-kind transfers such as food stamps, public housing, and Medicaid. These transfers can provide significant support to low-income households and improve their well-being, but they are not reflected in the income measure. Therefore, using an absolute income scale can underestimate the true level of poverty and the effectiveness of anti-poverty programs.

Why Is Measuring Poverty Using an Absolute Income Scale (Like