Psychology says people who grew up without money display these 7 unconscious behaviors as adults

Psychology has a fascinating way of revealing hidden aspects about our behavior, particularly those behaviors that stem from our upbringing.

Take, for instance, those of us who grew up without money. It’s interesting to note that such an experience can inadvertently shape our adult behaviors in ways we might not even realize.

In fact, psychology indicates that there are seven unconscious behaviorsthat  adults who grew up without money often display.

And these behaviors, my friends, are not only intriguing but also quite telling of how our past influences our present.

Keep in mind, understanding these behaviors isn’t about judgment or pity, but about gaining insight into the human experience and perhaps even better understanding ourselves or those around us.

As we delve into this topic, let’s remember to approach it with empathy and curiosity. Now let’s get on with uncovering these seven unconscious behaviors.

1) Hyperaware of financial status

Living on a tight budget is a challenge, and those who grow up without money often become hyperaware of their financial status.

This heightened awareness doesn’t magically disappear when they become adults; instead, it has a significant impact on their behavior.

Individuals who experience financial scarcity in their early years often have a heightened sense of the value of money.

They tend to be more careful about how they spend it, and are more likely to save and plan for the future.

Interestingly, this behavior isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It can be seen as a survival mechanism that has been ingrained through years of struggle.

Famous psychologist Sigmund Freud once said, “The behavior of a human being in sexual matters is often a prototype for the whole of his other modes of reaction in life.”

Just as Freud linked our sexual behavior to our overall behavior, it’s not far-fetched to extend this analogy to our financial behavior.

Those who grew up without money often have their attitudes and behaviors around finances shaped by their early experiences, making them more aware and cautious when it comes to spending.

2) Resourcefulness becomes second nature

Growing up with limited financial resources often means making do with what you have. And this, in turn, leads to developing a knack for being resourceful.

Let me share a personal example. As a child, I recall not having enough money for the latest toys or video games, unlike some of my friends.

But that didn’t stop my siblings and me from having fun. We’d often create our own games and toys from items we’d find around the house.

Now, as an adult, I see this resourcefulness reflected in my problem-solving skills.

Whether it’s finding a cost-effective solution at work or re-purposing an old piece of furniture at home, I’ve realized that growing up without much money has taught me to be creative and innovative with the resources I have.

In fact, psychologist Abraham Maslow once said, “In any given moment, we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety.”

In this sense, growing up without much money can be seen as stepping forward into growth, using our limitations as a springboard for creativity and innovation.

3) The value of hard work

Have you ever worked a job that paid the bare minimum?

Growing up without money often translates into understanding the true value of hard work from a young age.

It’s not uncommon for individuals in such situations to start working earlier than most, juggling school with part-time jobs to help support their family.

This early exposure to the realities of earning a living can instill a deep-rooted work ethic that carries over into adulthood. It’s a raw reality, but it also breeds resilience.

Carl Jung, a renowned psychologist, once said, “I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.”

This perfectly encapsulates the determination and tenacity often found in individuals who grew up without money.

Despite challenging circumstances, they choose to persevere, and in doing so, they become examples of resilience and determination.

While it’s a tough lesson to learn early in life, this understanding of hard work and resilience is something that shapes character and stays long into adulthood.

4) An amplified sense of empathy

A byproduct of growing up without money is often an amplified sense of empathy.

Experiencing hardship firsthand can make one more attuned to the struggles of others, leading to a heightened sensitivity towards the feelings and needs of those around them.

In a 2016 study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, researchers found that individuals who experienced economic hardship during their youth were more likely to be empathetic in adulthood.

The study further revealed that these individuals were more likely to value equality in resources.

The researchers suggested that this could be because experiencing financial struggles may cultivate a deeper understanding and sensitivity towards others facing similar challenges.

This shared experience might foster a stronger sense of empathy and solidarity.

This heightened empathy can influence various aspects of an individual’s life, from personal relationships to career choices, often steering them towards professions where they can make a difference in the lives of others.

5) The habit of self-reliance

Growing up without money often fosters a strong sense of self-reliance. When luxuries are few and far between, you quickly learn to depend on yourself.

I recall a time in my life when I had to fix a leaky faucet in my home because calling a plumber was simply out of my budget.

I didn’t know the first thing about plumbing, but with a little research and elbow grease, I managed to get the job done. It was in this moment that I realized just how self-reliant I had become.

This habit of reliance on oneself can carry into adulthood, often leading to individuals who are problem-solvers and who are not afraid to take matters into their own hands.

Psychologist Albert Bandura once said, “In order to succeed, people need a sense of self-efficacy, to struggle together with resilience to meet the inevitable obstacles and inequities of life.”

Indeed, growing up without money is one such obstacle that can foster a sense of self-efficacy and resilience that is invaluable in adulthood.

6) A different perspective on happiness

It may sound counterintuitive, but growing up without money can sometimes lead to a different perspective on happiness.

When material possessions and luxuries aren’t within easy reach, you learn to find joy in simpler things in life.

Whether it’s a shared meal with family, a walk in the park, or a good book, these simple pleasures become sources of happiness.

This isn’t to say that financial stability doesn’t contribute to well-being, but it does highlight the fact that money isn’t the sole determinant of happiness.

Famed psychologist Martin Seligman, known for his work on positive psychology, once said, “The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.”

Growing up without money often teaches this lesson firsthand, leading to adults who understand that happiness is found in experiences and relationships, rather than material wealth.

This perspective can actually be a strength, promoting resilience and an ability to find joy in life’s simple pleasures.

7) The power of gratitude

Growing up without money often cultivates a deep sense of gratitude in individuals. When resources are limited, every little thing tends to hold more value, and nothing is taken for granted.

This sense of appreciation can permeate all areas of life, leading to adults who are more likely to express gratitude for what they have.

As a psychologist and Holocaust survivor, Viktor Frankl once said, “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.”

This profound sense of gratitude can be seen as just such a personal transformation – a silver lining born out of challenging circumstances.

Parting thoughts

Navigating through the complexities of human behavior can often be like peeling an onion. There are many layers, each one shaped by our personal experiences and upbringing.

As we’ve explored in this article, growing up without money can leave a significant imprint on an individual’s behaviors and attitudes in adulthood.

These behaviors, whether it’s heightened financial awareness, amplified empathy or a sense of gratitude, are not just mere habits.

They are coping mechanisms, survival skills, and life lessons born out of necessity.

Each one of us is a product of our past, molded by the experiences we’ve had and the challenges we’ve overcome.

And while it’s important to acknowledge how our past can influence our present, it’s equally vital to remember that we have the power to shape our future.

So, whether you’ve recognized yourself in these behaviors or gained insight into the lives of others, let’s remember to approach each other with empathy and understanding.

Because at the end of the day, our experiences – good or bad – have a way of shaping us into who we are.