Why Do Poor People Attract Poor Friends? The Psychology of Social Connections

The questionrsquo;s been asked: why do poor people tend to attract poor friends? This phenomenon, often observed in society, can be explained through the lens of psychology and social behavior. Understanding the underlying reasons can shed light on how we connect with others and the importance of social networking.

Why Most Poor People Lack High Friendship Criteria

The simple answer to this question is that most poor individuals do not set high benchmarks or have low criteria for selecting their friends. People tend to surround themselves with similar individuals, which is a natural psychological tendency. This tendency is often influenced by convenience and the ease of maintaining social connections.

The Role of Shared Experiences and Stupidity

Shared experiences and intelligence play a significant role in friendship formation. Stupidity is often seen as a common bond among poor people. While this may seem negative, it should be noted that people can bond over shared experiences, despite their intelligence levels. For example, my housemate and his new best friend discussed their common status as ldquo;povo poverty,rdquo; which bonded them together. Similarly, when I introduced him to a well-off friend, he found that personality and intelligence were factors that made social interactions less comfortable.

The Attraction of Birds of a Feather

The proverb ldquo;birds of a feather flock togetherrdquo; often rings true in the context of social class. Poor people tend to hang out with other poor people until they find a way to improve their circumstances. Once they emerge from their poverty, they naturally seek better social connections, which often align with wealthier individuals.

The Role of Social Class and Environment

Social class significantly influences who we befriend. The places where poor and rich people live, their occupations, and their lifestyle choices often create natural barriers. For example, poor individuals typically do not live in the same neighborhoods as the wealthy, nor do they typically work in the same industries. Additionally, the affordances of entertainment and cultural events are often out of reach for the poor, leading to further segregation in social circles.

Friendship and Mutual Benefits

Another important factor in friendship formation is the mutual benefits individuals receive. Poor people tend to make friends with others who can provide social and economic support. Similarly, successful people may be more selective in their friendships, often rejecting those who are not doing well. This can be due to various factors, such as cultural norms, environmental influences, and individual tendencies towards snobbery.

Changing Your Circles and Thoughts

While we are naturally attracted to people like ourselves, there are ways to change our social circles and influence the friends we make. Changing onersquo;s thoughts and aspirations can lead to significant changes in social connections. For instance, my life in Brazil was comfortable but unambitious. However, after moving to the United States, I began associating with successful people, which dramatically improved my financial situation. My newfound friends helped me in my business, and I began to make more money.

Conclusion

The tendency of poor people to attract poor friends is a complex issue influenced by psychological, social, and economic factors. Understanding the underlying reasons can help individuals recognize the importance of their social circles and make conscious efforts to improve their connections. Such efforts can have significant positive impacts on overall well-being and success.

For more insights on the power of thoughts and their impact on life, consider reading the book ldquo;a href Power of Thoughts/a,rdquo; which delves into how thoughts influence our lives and how to navigate the challenges of self-improvement.