
Money has a way of altering people's behavior, often in subtle yet profound ways. Research shows that individuals who are paid hourly are more likely to take breaks and prioritize leisure time.
As people's financial situations change, so do their priorities. A study found that those who earn a higher income are more likely to donate to charity.
The way we spend our money can also reveal our values. For instance, someone who spends a significant amount on luxury items may prioritize status and material possessions over other aspects of their life.
Money can even influence our relationships, with research suggesting that people are more likely to form friendships with those who share similar financial values.
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Negative Effects of Money
Money can be a double-edged sword, and research suggests that it can actually decrease empathy and compassion in people. People with more resources tend to lose respect for others, which can lead to behaviors like mocking and aggression, even in hypothetical situations like a game of Monopoly.
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Having fewer resources, on the other hand, can increase emotional intelligence and make people more perceptive to emotions. This is likely because people who are struggling financially have to be more aware of the vulnerabilities and social threats around them.
Wealth can also cloud moral judgment, leading people to behave unethically and even lie. A study in the streets found that the most expensive vehicles were driven by people who were the least likely to respect others' space, such as allowing pedestrians to cross the street.
Money has been linked to addiction, with some studies suggesting that wealthy children are more vulnerable to substance abuse and other socialization problems. In fact, the pursuit of money can be addictive in itself, classified as a type of behavioral action.
Rich children may also be more prone to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues, possibly due to the high expectations and pressures that come with wealth.
Behavioral Changes

Money can change people in profound ways, leading to behavioral changes that may not be immediately apparent. Having more money can actually decrease empathy and compassion, as people from higher economic classes tend to lose respect for others.
Research has shown that people from lower economic classes are better at reading facial expressions and are more empathetic, while those from higher classes tend to be less so. This is because people with limited resources must rely on others for support and are more attuned to emotions.
Wealth can also lead to a loss of self, as people become defined by their financial status rather than their character or actions. This can cause them to forget what truly matters, such as happiness, love, and fulfillment.
Additionally, an influx of wealth can make people lose appreciation for the effort it takes to earn money, leading them to take shortcuts and undervalue the work of others. This shift in perspective diminishes genuine fulfillment and satisfaction.
Loss of Appreciation for Hard Work

Having a lot of money can make people lose appreciation for the effort it takes to earn it. This can lead to taking shortcuts and ignoring responsibilities.
Wealth can make people believe they're entitled to more, simply because of their financial status. This sense of entitlement can turn them into demanding and inconsiderate people.
Research has shown that people with more resources tend to lose respect for others, and become less empathetic. A study by the University of Berkeley found that even fake money can make people behave with less respect for each other.
The pursuit of wealth can be addictive, and the high of earning a big check or having a well-padded savings account can become the sole purpose of a person's life. Dr. Tian Dayton, a clinical psychologist, warns that this can lead to a severe preoccupation with money and put a strain on relationships.
True satisfaction lies in the effort and integrity invested in achieving wealth, not just in the accumulation of wealth itself. A unique pride and joy comes from knowing success was achieved through hard work and dedication.
As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "Money often costs too much" - and that cost can include personal values and meaningful relationships. Keeping egos in check remains essential, even if bank balances grow.
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Isolation

Isolation can be a major pitfall in the pursuit of wealth. Many people find themselves surrounded by acquaintances who are more interested in their bank balance than in who they truly are.
Genuine friendships become scarce as loneliness starts to creep in. This isolation can lead to feelings of disconnection and isolation.
With isolation comes anxiety, depression, and other mental health struggles, making it a serious issue to address.
Overconfidence
Overconfidence can be a slippery slope, as it often leads people to take unnecessary risks and make poor decisions. A sudden shift in financial circumstances can bring about a surge in confidence, but this doesn't always translate to positive change.
A large inheritance can have a profound impact on one's behavior, as it did for a close friend who received a substantial amount. He became convinced of his own invincibility and began making bold, risky choices.
People who experience a windfall often start to feel a sense of superiority over others, looking down on those with less. This can lead to a breakdown in relationships and a loss of empathy for others.
As the saying goes, "pride comes before a fall", and overconfidence can be a major contributor to this phenomenon.
Loss of Self

As people become consumed by the pursuit of wealth, they often lose sight of what truly matters. This can lead to a loss of self, where individuals become defined more by their financial status than by their character or actions.
Their values and passions take a backseat to the pursuit of wealth, causing them to forget about happiness, love, and fulfillment.
The focus on money can be so all-consuming that people forget George Horace Lorimer's wise words: "It's good to have money and the things that money can buy, but it's good, too, to check up once in a while and make sure you haven't lost the things money can't buy."
This loss of self can have serious consequences, causing people to feel unfulfilled and unhappy, even if they've achieved great financial success.
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Fear of Loss
Living in a state of fear can be overwhelming. Money can come and go quickly, and those who let it dictate their personality often face a persistent fear of losing it all.

This nagging thought can creep in and consume you, impacting your decisions, relationships, and even your sleep. It's a dreadful experience that brings stress, anxiety, and a range of health issues.
It's essential to remember that money should serve us, not control us. Life's too short to be governed by fear.
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Self-Sufficiency and Service
Being self-sufficient can be a double-edged sword. A 2009 Yale School of Management study found that those who are conscious of money tend to be more self-sufficient than others, but this can also make them less likely to ask for help.
The study used Monopoly money to test the effect of money on behavior. One group was reminded of money, while the other wasn't. The result? The money-conscious group was less likely to ask for assistance, even when it was needed.
In contrast, the group that wasn't reminded of money was more likely to seek help. This suggests that being too focused on money can make us less willing to ask for help, even when it's necessary.
It's interesting to note that this study also found that the money-conscious group was less likely to offer help to others. They were less likely to be helpful when someone needed it, and they were also less likely to seek help themselves.
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Consequences of Wealth

Money can't fix everything, and a substantial bank balance can't cushion the blow of broken relationships or restore lost trust. It's a hard truth to accept, but one that's essential to keeping our priorities straight.
As Holly Lisle so wisely put it, "Actions have consequences…first rule of life." And that's especially true when it comes to wealth. People often assume that money can make up for poor behavior, but that's not the case.
Disregard for Consequences
People who prioritize wealth often start to feel invincible, believing they can get away with anything.
This mindset can lead them to overlook potential outcomes, assuming their wealth can cushion any blow. But money can't fix everything.
Money can't mend broken relationships or restore lost trust. It's a myth that wealth can erase guilt or make up for poor decisions.
As Holly Lisle said, "Actions have consequences…first rule of life. And the second rule is this—you are the only one responsible for your own actions."
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Power is a curious animal, and in a capitalist or corrupt society, it can easily go hand in hand with money. It gives those who have it the illusion of being special, making them feel safe and in control.
People will sell their souls to live in this bubble of power, this air of invincibility. It feeds their egos and makes them believe the rules don't always apply to them.
Those born to wealth eventually have their struggles, and even the rich cry. Power can't protect them from life's uncertainties and challenges.
Living in a bubble of power can be alluring, but it's essential to remember that true wealth lies in being grounded and humble.
Social and Economic Impact
Money can indeed change people, and not just in the way we think. It can alter their behavior, relationships, and even their sense of self.
Research has shown that people who win the lottery are more likely to divorce and experience social isolation. This is because the sudden influx of wealth can create unrealistic expectations and lead to a sense of disconnection from others.

Money can also change people's priorities, with some individuals becoming more materialistic and focused on accumulating wealth. For example, a study found that people who earn higher incomes tend to have more possessions and a greater sense of entitlement.
On the other hand, money can also bring people together, as seen in the case of entrepreneurs who start businesses to create jobs and support their communities. These individuals often report feeling a sense of purpose and fulfillment that goes beyond just making a profit.
As the article highlights, money can be a powerful motivator, but it's not the only factor that drives human behavior. People's values, relationships, and sense of identity all play a significant role in shaping who they become.
Ethics
Money can have a profound impact on our behavior, and it's not always for the better. A 2012 study found that the wealthiest individuals are more likely to engage in unethical behavior, even when it's to the detriment of others.

Research suggests that those who perceive themselves as being in a higher class are more likely to break the rules, and this is often referred to as "self-interest maximization." This means they're focused on getting the most benefit for themselves, no matter the cost.
The study also found that introducing symbols of wealth, such as driving a luxury car, can further increase the likelihood of unethical behavior. It's as if the trappings of wealth create a sense of entitlement, leading people to prioritize their own interests above others.
As wealth increases, some people may lose sight of what truly matters, becoming less empathetic and compassionate. They may forget that wealth isn't just about the numbers in their bank account, but also about the richness of their character and kindness.
Money can indeed cloud our perspective, making us forget the struggles we once faced. This can lead to a lack of empathy and a focus on our own self-interest, rather than considering the impact on others.
Money and Behavior

Money can cloud moral judgment, making people less empathetic and more prone to disrespect others. This is evident in a study where people with more resources behaved aggressively towards those with less, even when it was just a game.
Having fewer resources, on the other hand, increases emotional intelligence. People of low economic status are better at reading facial expressions and responding to social threats.
Wealth is linked to greater susceptibility to addiction problems. High-income children are more vulnerable to substance abuse and socialization problems.
Money itself can become addictive, and the search for more money can lead to negative behavior. The need to spend money can be just as addictive as the need to have more money.
Rich children often struggle with depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. They may also be more prone to lying and other negative behaviors.
People tend to stereotype and distrust the wealthy, viewing them as "evil." This can create a sense of envy and distance between people of different economic backgrounds.
Sources
- https://steemit.com/people/@luckyjuly24/7-ways-in-which-money-changes-the-behavior-of-people
- https://www.ukessays.com/essays/english-literature/how-money-changes-people-english-literature-essay.php
- https://www.moneycrashers.com/money-changes-people-affect-behavior/
- https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/money-changes-people-subomi-plumptre
- https://blogherald.com/self-development/people-who-allow-money-to-change-their-personality-typically-display-these-behaviors-says-psychology/
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