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.