Prepare for the MCAT Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Relative poverty is characterized by a person's economic situation as compared to others within their society or community. It reflects not only income but also how that income limits one's ability to participate in regular social, economic, or cultural activities. This comparative aspect highlights that individuals may be considered relatively poor if they do not have enough resources to meet the average standards of living in their immediate environment, even if their basic survival needs are met.

In contrast, absolute poverty focuses on the deprivation of basic needs like food, shelter, and healthcare required for survival. Lack of basic needs pertains to this absolute poverty concept rather than relative poverty. Additionally, while financial factors do play a role in relative poverty, it is not solely focused on wealth. This allows flexibility in understanding poverty in terms of societal context and living standards rather than just numerical income figures.