Short Abstract:

Recognizing the intrinsic link between aspirations and capabilities, this research employs the Capability Approach alongside aspirations theory to develop a conceptual framework, i.e., the Capability to Aspire Framework (CAF), through which to explore the relationship between poverty and aspirations among the youth.

Long Abstract:

Traditional economic analysis focuses on identifying and alleviating external constraints that hinder individual choice and behavior among the impoverished, encompassing issues such as hunger, inadequate healthcare, and limited access to education (Moore, 2005, cited in Frame, De Lannoy & Leibbrandt, 2016). These constraints significantly impact the well-being of those living in poverty, emphasizing the critical role of economic growth and social modernization in advancing human development. However, while these advancements are pivotal, they alone do not guarantee the expansion of freedom (Sen 1999, cited in Roberts, Hite & Chorev, 2014). Sen (1989) argues that development is about enhancing people's real freedoms, which encompasses their capabilities—defined as the freedom to pursue and achieve various functionings in life. Economic and social development is meaningful only to the extent that it unlocks individuals' capabilities (Drèze & Sen, 2002, cited in Robeyns, 2005). Evaluating capabilities thus goes beyond addressing external constraints.

Poverty is not solely an external condition; Internal constraints, such as low aspirations, also play a role in perpetuating poverty (Serneels and Dercon, 2021). Aspirations, which inform individuals' preferences and choices, are deeply intertwined with capabilities. Chronic poverty often erodes individuals' confidence in their abilities, shaping the capabilities they aspire toward (Ghosal, 2021). According to Appadurai (2004), the poor may lack the capacity to aspire, which impacts their capability set relative to that of the rich, negatively influences their behavior and impacts their overall developmental trajectory. Aspirations and capabilities are thus intertwined, with aspirations providing the framework within which specific capabilities can be realized and sustained (Appadurai, 2004).

Recognizing the intrinsic link between aspirations and capabilities, this research employs the Capability Approach alongside aspirations theory to develop a conceptual framework, i.e., the Capability to Aspire Framework (CAF), through which to explore the relationship between poverty and aspirations among the youth in Bonteheuwel. This framework conceptualizes aspirations as a capability, i.e., the capability to aspire. The capability to aspire is defined as the freedom to formulate meaningful goals and pursue them, and is an integral part of individuals' capability set.

The findings, analyzed using the Capability to Aspire Framework (CAF) in a qualitative descriptive case study, shed light on the complexity of youth aspirations and the challenges they face. Factors such as a constrained aspiration window, gang pressure, educational barriers, financial constraints, lack of support and role models, crime, and food insecurity constrain young people's capability to aspire. To enhance youth capability to aspire, interventions such as career exhibitions, exposure to role models, and addressing basic needs like food insecurity are recommended. By understanding and addressing the interplay between aspirations, poverty, and capabilities, this study aims to contribute insights into more effective approaches to youth development and poverty alleviation.