According to various independent studies, lower-income people tend to have stronger relationships as well as greater senses of community and responsibility while richer people tend to be more isolated and less generous.
With the recent downturn in the U.S. economy, many folks have been struggling to meet daily needs and pay bills with their limited income. However, according to various independent studies, that struggle may just be a blessing in disguise.
Since lower-income people often cannot meet needs on their own, they build stronger relationships, maintain a greater sense of community, and help each other survive.
Richer people can do more on their own and many transition to a self-centered focus for their personal freedoms and desires. As a result, they may weaken or lose connections with family and friends.
As someone who went from poverty to a high-profile career with the University of California, Berkeley, Psychology professor Dacher Keltner admitted that when his focus was on material things, he didn’t invest time in other people and their needs.
According to one study, families making less than $30,000, gave 4.2 percent of their income while the rich gave 2.7. Keltner added, “In just about every way you can study it, our lower-class individuals volunteer more, they give more of their resources.”
Other research indicates that the strength of bonds and amount of giving are increased with religious people.