Society often imposes arbitrary standards of behavior and appearance, relegating certain habits and actions to the “low class.” These judgments can be rooted in stereotypes, prejudices, or a lack of understanding.
However, it’s essential to recognize that class is not solely determined by external markers, and many of these so-called “low class” habits may have complex reasons behind them. Let’s explore 15 habits that society considers to be low class.
Eating Fast Food Frequently
Frequent fast food consumption is deemed low class in a society that often equates health with socioeconomic status. While it’s true that fast food tends to be cheaper and more accessible, condemning those who partake overlooks the systemic issues of food deserts and lack of nutritional education. Additionally, fast food chains often strategically target lower-income neighborhoods, exacerbating the issue.
Wearing Clothing with Visible Wear and Tear
Wearing clothes with visible signs of wear and tear is often associated with poverty or neglect. However, for many individuals, replacing clothing isn’t always financially feasible. Additionally, the trend of distressed clothing among the affluent demonstrates how perceptions of wear can vary based on context. Still, the lack of access to quality clothing due to financial constraints should not be dismissed.
Using Public Transportation
Despite being an essential mode of transportation for millions, using public transit is often stigmatized as low class. This stigma overlooks the environmental benefits of public transportation and the economic necessity for many individuals who can’t afford private vehicles. Moreover, public transportation can foster a sense of community and reduce social isolation for some riders.
Living in Low-Income Housing
Society often judges those living in low-income housing as being of a lower class. However, affordable housing is a systemic issue, and many individuals and families have no choice but to live in such conditions due to financial constraints. Additionally, the lack of investment in affordable housing perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality.
Having a Non-Standard Accent or Dialect
Accents and dialects associated with specific regions or socioeconomic backgrounds are often unfairly judged as low class. However, linguistic diversity enriches society, and such judgments reflect linguistic prejudice rather than any inherent inferiority. Furthermore, accent discrimination can lead to social exclusion and limit opportunities for individuals with non-standard speech patterns.
Using Couponing and Discount Shopping
Utilizing coupons and seeking out discounts is often seen as indicative of financial struggle or frugality. However, savvy shopping is a practical skill that can benefit anyone regardless of income level. Moreover, discount shopping can be a conscious choice to reduce waste and support sustainable consumption practices.
Having a Blue-Collar Job
Blue-collar jobs are frequently looked down upon in a society that values white-collar professions. However, these jobs are essential for maintaining infrastructure and providing vital services, and the notion of superiority based on occupation is both unfounded and harmful. Additionally, blue-collar workers often possess valuable skills and expertise that contribute significantly to society.
Smoking or Vaping
Smoking or vaping is often associated with lower socioeconomic status and is judged as a low-class habit. However, addiction is a complex issue influenced by various factors, and stigmatizing smokers overlooks the underlying reasons for their behavior. Moreover, smoking cessation programs and resources are often less accessible to lower-income individuals, perpetuating the cycle of addiction.
Participating in Reality TV Shows
Participation in reality TV shows is often derided as low class, with contestants perceived as seeking fame at any cost. However, such judgments overlook the diverse motivations behind participation and the cultural significance of reality television. Furthermore, reality TV can allow individuals from marginalized backgrounds to share their stories and gain visibility.
Public Displays of Affection
Public displays of affection, particularly among lower-income individuals, are sometimes viewed as vulgar or inappropriate. However, expressions of love and affection are universal human behaviors, and shaming individuals for them reflects narrow-mindedness rather than class distinctions. Moreover, cultural norms around public displays of affection vary widely, and what may be considered acceptable in one context may be frowned upon in another.
Having a Large Family
Large families are often stereotyped as being characteristic of lower-income households. However, family size can be influenced by cultural factors, personal beliefs, and socioeconomic circumstances, and judging based on family size perpetuates harmful stereotypes. Additionally, large families often cultivate strong bonds and provide mutual support, challenging the notion that size equates to dysfunction.
Being Overweight
Body size, particularly being overweight, is often unfairly linked to socioeconomic status. However, factors such as access to healthy food options, healthcare, and genetics play significant roles in weight, and judging individuals based on their size perpetuates discrimination and stigma. Furthermore, weight-based discrimination can lead to negative health outcomes and perpetuate cycles of poverty.
Engaging in Manual Labor
Engaging in manual labor is often associated with low class, with manual workers sometimes being looked down upon. However, such work is often physically demanding and vital to society, and the devaluation of manual labor reflects societal biases rather than inherent worth. Moreover, manual labor often requires specialized skills and expertise that are essential for many industries.
Having Tattoos or Piercings
Tattoos and piercings are sometimes judged as low class, particularly when visible or extensive. However, body modification is a form of self-expression and cultural identity for many individuals, and such judgments reflect narrow beauty standards rather than class distinctions. Additionally, tattoos and piercings have deep cultural and historical significance across various societies and should be respected as valid forms of personal expression.
Having a Loud or Boisterous Personality
Individuals with loud or boisterous personalities are sometimes deemed low class, particularly in formal or professional settings. However, personality traits vary widely and are not inherently tied to socioeconomic status, and judging based on demeanor perpetuates harmful stereotypes. Moreover, individuals with outgoing personalities often bring energy and creativity to social interactions, challenging rigid norms of behavior.
15 Things the Middle-Class Will No Longer Be Able To Afford in 5 Years
15 Things the Middle-Class Will No Longer Be Able To Afford in 5 Years
As retirement beckons and the golden years unfold, financial security becomes extremely important. However, the economy is ever-evolving, and what was once considered comfortably within reach…
A Guide to Earning Random Money on Cash App
In the digital age, there’s no shortage of innovative ways to make a little extra cash, and cash apps have become a popular avenue for those…
A Guide to Earning Random Money on Cash App
15 Part-Time Jobs For Retirees Who Just Aren’t Ready To Stop Working
Retirement doesn’t necessarily mean an end to productivity. For many retirees, part-time work perfectly balances leisure and engagement. Whether it’s to supplement income, stay active, or…
15 Part-Time Jobs For Retirees Who Just Aren’t Ready To Stop Working
15 Tips on Navigating Financial Freedom on a Budget After Retirement
Starting on the journey of retirement with limited financial resources may seem daunting. However, with careful planning and strategic decisions, it’s possible to enjoy a comfortable…
15 Tips on Navigating Financial Freedom on a Budget After Retirement
Victoria Cornell helps women adopt a positive mindset even when the struggles of motherhood feel overwhelming. Victoria writes for multiple media outlets where she writes about, saving money, retirement, ways to reduce stress with mindset, manifesting, goal planning, productivity, and more.