Without constant motivation and encouragement to improve, one would not expect any upward mobility to take place. Once a group of individuals begins to rely on government assistance, neighbors, community programs, and certain criminal activities, it is very difficult in most situations to reverse the trend. The underclass includes a portion of the poor who are not only economically deprived, but also display a significantly distinct set of values, perspectives, norms, and behaviors. The idea that not only will they not escape their specific economic situation, but they will not be able to do so, thus resorting to crime to meet their basic survival needs. This perspective then interferes with the ability of members of the underclass to advance.