People who grew up in poverty usually display these 9 traits later in life, according to psychology

Growing up in poverty leaves a lasting mark, but not always in the ways you might think.

Sure, it shapes your experiences, but it also builds certain traits that stick with you long after you’ve left those tough times behind.

From how you handle money to the way you see the world, people who’ve faced financial struggles often develop unique habits and perspectives that set them apart.

Curious if you’ve picked up some of these traits along the way?

Let’s dive into 9 characteristics that psychology says are common in those who grew up in poverty. 

1) They value relationships

Growing up in poverty often means relying heavily on relationships with family and friends for support and survival.

This reliance can shape a deep appreciation for the importance of social connections later in life.

You may notice that these individuals often place a high value on their relationships.

They might frequently check in with family members, or make an extra effort to maintain friendships, even if they’ve moved away or their circumstances have changed.

They understand the importance of a strong support system and the role it plays in resilience. This is not just about emotional support, but also about mutual assistance in times of need.

This deep-rooted sense of connection and solidarity often extends to their community as well.

They may be more likely to participate in community events or volunteer activities, understanding that we all need a little help sometimes.

2) They practice resourcefulness

Experiencing poverty in childhood often requires developing a keen sense of resourcefulness. 

This capability to make the most of what’s available or find creative solutions to challenges can become deeply ingrained.

You might notice that these individuals are adept at problem-solving, particularly when resources are limited.

They might show a knack for fixing things instead of disposing of them, or devising inventive ways to stretch a meal.

In their professional lives, they may excel in roles that require innovation and the ability to ‘make do’ with what’s available.

This resourcefulness isn’t limited to material goods. It can extend to their time and energy as well, mastering the art of juggling responsibilities and tasks in efficient ways.

This skill is often born out of necessity, but it becomes a valuable asset in their lives, showing resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.

3) They display a sense of optimism

While one might expect individuals who grew up in poverty to carry a negative outlook on life, quite the opposite can be true.

Many of these individuals develop a distinct sense of optimism that persists into their adult lives.

You may find that they exhibit an unwavering belief in the possibility of a better future.

Perhaps they continually strive for improvement, tirelessly working towards their goals, no matter how big or small.

They may be the ones who see the glass as half full rather than half empty, always finding something to be grateful for even in challenging situations.

This positivity is not mere naivety but rather a testament to their resilience.

It is an affirmation that despite the hardships they have faced, they still believe in the potential for good things to come.

4) They struggle with financial anxiety

Growing up in poverty leaves an indelible impact on an individual’s relationship with money, often resulting in financial anxiety that lingers well into adulthood.

You might observe them being extremely cautious with their spending, often foregoing luxuries or even necessities out of fear of not having enough.

They might have a paycheck-to-paycheck mentality, always worried about the next bill or unexpected expense.

In some cases, they may obsessively track every penny spent or constantly feel the need to save, even if they are financially stable now.

This anxiety can lead to stress and impact their overall mental health.

5) They show empathy towards others

Having experienced the hardships of poverty firsthand, these individuals often develop a heightened sense of empathy towards others who are struggling.

You might find them being the first ones to lend a helping hand or offer support, understanding what it feels like to be in a tough spot.

They are often non-judgmental, knowing that everyone has their own battles to fight.

Their experiences have taught them the importance of kindness and compassion.

They may go out of their way to make people feel included and cared for, as they know how it feels to be left out or overlooked.

6) They appreciate the small things

One of the most relatable traits of individuals who grew up in poverty is their ability to appreciate the small things in life.

Perhaps they find joy in:

• A home-cooked meal
• A walk in the park,
• A good book from the library

It could be the way they savor a cup of coffee or treasure a heartfelt conversation with a friend.

These individuals understand that happiness isn’t always found in grand gestures or expensive possessions, but often in the simple, everyday moments that many of us take for granted.

7) They are masters of improvisation

Growing up in poverty often involves learning to improvise and this trait frequently translates into a light-hearted ability to make the best out of any situation in adulthood.

These individuals might be the ones who come up with the most entertaining games using just a deck of cards, or who can turn a random assortment of fridge leftovers into a gourmet meal.

When plans fall through, they’re quick to come up with an even better backup plan.

They might turn a power outage into an impromptu candlelit dinner or a rainy day into a cozy indoor picnic.

Their knack for improvisation not only showcases their creative thinking but also their ability to inject fun and positivity into even the most unexpected situations. 

8) They might struggle with self-worth

Growing up in poverty can take a toll on an individual’s self-esteem, often leading to struggles with self-worth in adulthood.

This is a hard truth, but it’s important to acknowledge.

You might see them downplaying their achievements or doubting their abilities, regardless of how much they’ve accomplished.

They might be overly critical of themselves and have a hard time accepting compliments or praise.

In relationships and workplaces, they might tolerate less than they deserve, thinking they’re not worthy of better.

9) They are resilient

Perhaps the most critical trait to remember about individuals who grew up in poverty is their remarkable resilience.

These individuals have faced adversities that many of us cannot even imagine, yet they’ve not only survived, but often thrived.

They’ve learned to adapt, to persevere, and to stay hopeful even in the most challenging circumstances.

You might see this resilience shine through in the way they tackle obstacles, in their unwavering determination, or in their refusal to give up on their dreams no matter what.

Reflecting on these traits

Those are nine common traits that often emerge from the crucible of growing up in poverty.

While these characteristics may stem from challenging circumstances, they can also be powerful tools for resilience, creativity, and empathy in adulthood.

Recognizing these traits within yourself or others can open up a deeper understanding of the journey each person has taken.

Remember, it’s not just about the struggles faced; it’s about how those experiences shape who we become.

Whether you’re embracing your own unique traits or seeking to understand someone else’s story, these insights can lead to growth, connection, and a richer appreciation for the diverse paths we all travel in life.

So, let’s celebrate these strengths and continue to support one another on this incredible journey!