The author uses the phrase "lower socioeconomic status" in this excerpt to describe a group of people using language that is formal and unbiased.
1. Formal Language: By using the term "lower socioeconomic status," the author employs formal language that is commonly used in academic or research contexts to describe economic and social standing.
2. Unbiased Description: The phrase is neutral and objective, avoiding any personal judgments or emotional connotations. It simply states a demographic characteristic without adding positive or negative connotations.
In this context, the author is presenting a factor, lower socioeconomic status, as one of the influences affecting youth tobacco use. This choice of language helps maintain an objective and informative tone in discussing the impact of socioeconomic factors on behavior.