2010-09-24-皮尤-One_Recession,_Two_Americas_16页_429kb

Summary of "One Recession, Two Americas" Report

Overview of Findings

The Great Recession effectively divided America into two roughly equal groups: one in which 45% of adults experienced fewer economic hardships ("Held their Own"), and the other in which 55% faced greater challenges ("Lost Ground"). These groups experienced vastly different economic outcomes despite the recession's widespread impact.

Methodology

Pew Research Center used cluster analysis based on a survey of 2,967 nationally representative adults interviewed between May 2010 and June 2009. The analysis examined responses to eight questions assessing recession-related hardships, such as job changes, income loss, and financial adjustments. The recession started in December 2007 and ended in June 2009.

Key Demographic Differences

• Age: Older adults (e.g., 65+) were more likely to Hold their Own, while younger adults (e.g., 18-39) were more likely to Lose Ground.
• Education: College graduates (58%) were more likely to Hold their Own, compared to those with less education (38%).
• Ethnicity: Whites were overrepresented in the Hold their Own group, while Hispanics and Blacks were more likely to Lose Ground.
• Political Affiliation: Republicans were more likely to Hold their Own, which aligns with higher household incomes and education; this difference varies with demographic factors.
• Geographic Location: Residents in the East were more likely to Hold their Own, while city dwellers and certain regions had higher rates of economic hardship.

Economic Hardships and Experiences

• Unemployment and Income: 43% of those who Lost Ground were unemployed during the recession, compared to less than 1% of those who Held their Own.
• Financial Changes: 48% of Landed Ground withdrew money from savings or retirements, versus less than 20%, while income declined for 48% of Landed Ground and only 14% of Held their Own.
• Job-Related Issues: Those who Lost Ground experienced higher rates of pay cuts, reduced hours, and job-related hardships.
• Assets and Protection: Homeownership and investments offered significant buffer against hardship; 75% of Held their Own were homeowners, compared to 53% of those who Lost Ground.

Limitations and Context

The report acknowledges that the analysis focused on specific hardships and may not capture all economic nuances. Both groups experienced some reversal during the recession, but the cluster analysis measures severe hardships. Educational attainment, age, and race are strong predictors of group membership.