Though the Marmeladov family is of average means, carelessness with money subjects them to financial and familial strain.

Marmeladov's demons drive him to neglect his duties as a provider. Katerina's pride motivates her to feel as though she is superior to others. Sonia sacrifices herself in order to support her family. Reckless action have definite consequences. We are first introduced to Semyon Zakharovich Marmeladov in a tavern that he evidently frequents. He explains to our protagonist his troubles in life; his career, his addiction, and his family. Marmeladov conveys that he was drunk when his daughter Sonia first went into prostitution in order to provide for the family. He has an intense love for his wife and children though he does not show if often in his behavior. His propensity to that foolish weakness is a roadblock to his family's otherwise stable financial situation. Katerina Ivanovna Marmeladov lives in the past. She comes from an upper-class, respectable family which, though she was disinherited after running off with her first husband, gives her a sense of privilege or pride. She is of a very abusive nature and beats her children often; she is also violent and confrontational with people she deems inferior. Katerina is dying of tuberculosis and is mentally weak, but with no treatment available to her. Though she berates her step-daughter Sonia into prostitution, she is still devoted to her family, including her irresponsible husband. We as readers heard about Sonia Semyonovna Marmeladov long before we met her. Marmeladov, her father, tells us about her sacrifice to maintain finances by way of prostitution. It is said that she has grown to enjoy reading and does so with great interest. One gains a feeling for her disposition partially by her obtaining legal permission to work as a prostitute and by her unselfishness. It is obvious that Sonia cares for her family and would do anything for them, including sacrificing her morals. In these examples we see how even a family of a regular income can fall into poverty. Marmeladov allows his addiction to run his life. Katerina abuses the one she loves most as a way to cope with her troubles. Sonia does all that she can to support her family no matter the cost, physically or mentally. Though the Marmeladov family have their issues, one thing is definite; their love for one another is tantamount.