In this competitive and fast-paced society, it is common knowledge that our job and financial situation controls most of our lives- from what we eat, to where we live, to whom we meet. In other words, we learn that our financial status guides our lifestyle and outlook on life, with wealthier families being able to enjoy more amenities than the poor. On the other hand however, many believe that financially stable families are no better off than low-income families. So, which group is correct?

According to a study conducted by the Pew Research Center of parents with children under 18 years of age, 92 % of parents with an income of $75,000 + stated that their neighborhood is an excellent/ good place to raise their children. However, as the family income decreases, this percentage goes down as well, with 82% for an income of $30,000 -$74,999 and 67% for an income of less than $30,000. In contrast, the percentage of parents who describe their neighborhood as fair/ poor for their children increases as family income decreases- 7% for incomes of $75,000+ to 18% for incomes of $30,000- $74,999 to 33% for incomes of less than $30,000. Hence, it can be said that family income is directly proportional to the percentage of parents who are satisfied with their community.

Furthermore, the data proves that children of higher income parents have greater access to extracurricular enrichment. For any type of extracurricular activity whether that be athletics, volunteering, or music, the level of family income is positively associated with the percentage of kids in that income level who have been involved in non-scholastic activities. However, it is not only kids who are affected by their parents‘ income. Parents themselves are more likely to approve of their parenting skills if they are more financially stable. 96% of those who can afford to live comfortably rate their parenting as very good/ good. This percentage goes down as income decreases- from 96% to 93% to 89% to 77%.

Although it may seem that wealthier families have a more positive perspective toward life, this does not mean that there are no exceptions. For instance, despite the fact that compared to richer families, a higher proportion of lower income parents worry about issues such as their children being victims of violence or committing crimes, when it comes to issues such as drugs and alcohol, while 41% of parents with incomes of less than $30,000 worry about this, for financially stable parents (income of $75,000 + ) , the number was 44%. Additionally, in regards to their children suffering from mental illnesses like depression or anxiety, the percentage of parents concerned about this topic was equal at 55% across all different levels of income- for incomes of $75K, $30K- $74,999, and <$30K.

To answer the question- do wealthier families have it better off than low income families- the response is yes…but this is not without some caveats. It is undoubtedly true that financially stable families have a more optimistic and confident attitude toward their children and their lives, but at the same time, they are victims of issues that pervade lower income families as well.

<Louis Chung/ Beverly Hills High School 12th>