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"Counting the Costs of a Broken Family: How the Economy Makes a Profit"




Quantifying the economic impact of whole families versus broken families involves looking at various categories where costs might differ significantly. Here are some estimated figures and comparisons across different categories, based on available research and data:


1. Social Services and Support Systems:

  • Whole Family: Lower usage of social services, estimated at around $500 per year per family for basic support services.

  • Broken Family: Higher usage due to increased need for counseling, financial aid, and housing assistance. Estimated cost can range from $3,000 to $10,000 per year per family.


2. Education and Schools:

  • Whole Family: Lower costs associated with educational support, estimated at around $1,000 per child per year for standard educational expenses.

  • Broken Family: Higher costs due to additional support programs and behavioral interventions. Estimated at $3,000 to $5,000 per child per year.


3. Healthcare:

  • Whole Family: Average healthcare costs are around $4,500 per person per year.

  • Broken Family: Increased mental health and stress-related healthcare needs. Estimated at $6,000 to $7,500 per person per year.


4. Economic Impact:

  • Whole Family: More stable economic contributions through steady employment and lower reliance on welfare. Estimated at around $2,000 per family per year in welfare costs.

  • Broken Family: Higher reliance on welfare programs. Estimated at $6,000 to $10,000 per family per year.


5. Crime and Safety:

  • Whole Family: Lower involvement in crime, estimated at around $200 per person per year for community policing and safety programs.

  • Broken Family: Higher rates of juvenile delinquency and crime. Estimated at $1,500 to $2,500 per person per year.


6. Community Cohesion and Engagement:

  • Whole Family: Typically higher engagement, contributing positively to community activities. Estimated community support costs at $300 per family per year.

  • Broken Family: Potential for lower engagement and higher community support needs. Estimated at $1,000 per family per year.


7. Housing and Stability:

  • Whole Family: More stable housing situations, lower costs for community housing programs. Estimated at $500 per family per year.

  • Broken Family: Higher mobility and housing instability. Estimated at $3,000 to $5,000 per family per year.


8. Cultural and Social Dynamics:

  • Whole Family: Lower costs associated with social support networks. Estimated at $200 per family per year.

  • Broken Family: Increased need for community-driven support initiatives. Estimated at $1,000 per family per year.


Total Estimated Annual Costs:

  • Whole Family: Approximately $9,200 to $10,200 per year.

  • Broken Family: Approximately $24,500 to $41,000 per year.


These estimates highlight the substantial difference in economic impact between whole families and broken families across various categories. The increased costs associated with broken families stem primarily from higher reliance on social services, healthcare, education support, and community safety measures. While these figures are broad estimates and can vary significantly based on specific circumstances and local economic conditions, they provide a comparative overview of the potential economic impact.

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