The Persistence of Urban Deprivation: The Example of Wichita,Kansas, in the 1970s

Abstract During the 1970s, several programs were implemented to deal with the problem of urban deprivation within US central cities. This study examines the changing spatial distribution of various deprivation indicators within the city of Wichita, Kansas, and identifies the social and economic characteristics of those areas most affected by changes. Linear regression is utilized to develop a typology of change. Areas that deteriorated in relation to the rest of the city are characterized by disproportionate concentrations of the city's “underclass,” while areas that improved in relation to the rest of the city were the most affluent neighborhoods. The study found little evidence that deprivation was reduced in those areas of the inner city targeted for special assistance; indeed, in much of the inner city, levels of deprivation increased relative to the rest of the city.