Submitted by: Jiaying Zhao
My research shows that poverty poses significant budgetary challenges that impair cognitive function, leading to suboptimal behaviours that can perpetuate the condition of poverty. Moreover, the poor face stigmas associated with poverty, which further reduces mental function. To alleviate the impact of poverty, I’m currently investigating how unconditional cash transfers and self-affirmation lead to sustainable gains in income, cognitive function, and well-being in low-income villagers in Uganda. The research not only offers new insights on the psychology of poverty, but also has important implications of policy on poverty and sustainability.