A social scientist argues that inner-city families cannot escape a cycle of poverty because: a. they see the lack of opportunities around them.
b. they decide that the world of the middle class is permanently closed to them
c. they do not try to maintain steady employment or send their children to college.

All of the above

Explanation:

According to the Culture of poverty theory, this is a theory that implies that people who are poor, are actually poor because of their distinct perceptions, values, and cultural norm.

Hence, a perfect example of the Culture of poverty theory is what is in the question, which is:

A social scientist argues that inner-city families cannot escape a cycle of poverty because " they see the lack of opportunities around them, decide that the world of the middle class is permanently closed to them, and do not try to maintain steady employment or send their children to college."

Therefore the correct answer is "All of the answers above or listed."