Social Gain or Social Pain: Subjective Socio-economic Status, Income and Attitudes towards Social Relations

Abstract

Social pain is usually defined as the experience of pain because of interpersonal rejection or loss. The aim of this study was to find out the peculiarities of attitudes towards social relations in different groups of income and perceived socio-economic status in a representative sample of Lithuanian population (n=1001). We have found that mean ranks in the lowest-income quintile, agreeing that “my relationships are supportive and rewarding”, were almost twice lower than in the highest-income quintile. A similar tendency was observed with the statements “I actively contribute to the happiness and well-being of others” and “People respect me”. Mean ranks in the subjectively poorest group regarding perceived respect from people were almost three times lower than in the subjectively rich group. It appears that having low income and low subjective socio-economic status may harm psychological wellbeing. Our study raises concern regarding societal wellbeing: we suggest that in order to achieve the prosperity of society, it is necessary to reduce socioeconomic inequalities and through various programs and projects strengthen people’s ability to establish and maintain supportive, compassionate social contacts