Disadvantages in being working class/from a poor background?

Question

What are the real disadvantages in being from a working class background? When it comes to education and opportunities to dig yourself out, what cost related problems are difficult/impossible to get around?

Answer 1

Access to opportunity is the chief disadvantage. Coming from a working class and/or poor background usually means one has been brought up with cultural values associated with poverty. This places a person at a disadvantage because the mindset most attractive to educational environments is decidedly middle class. It is one of learning for learning sake and if one is from a working class background this idea is seen as an anathema. Therefore maintaining the chasm between affluence and poverty.

Privileged class status has a way of reinforcing itself and favoring those who know its norms and custom and this is another way in which people from disadvantaged class background can find themselves held back. This can manifest in a variety of ways, most of which distinguish the haves from the have nots.

Answer 2

I am prime example of this. I grew up in middle class working America and due to disability am now at 140% below poverty level. I can't get a college education ..even with financial aid..it doesn't cover nearly close to all of it..unless I take out a loan (which I can't repay).  I have to live in low income housing and be on food stamps/medicaid, etc. Low income housing people are treated like dirt and so is anyone on welfare. I would love to be able to buy me a mobilel home but with no more income than I have, there is no way.. It would take over half my check just for payments (if I could even borrow the downpayment).  I have Medicaid/medicare but they don't pay for things I really need like dental work..etc...My dental work will cost me $ 10,000 out of my pocket..can't afford insurance.  When I do try to work, the state cuts my food stamps and check and raises my rent..so I am not any better off.  You would think the govt would give you a chance to work and save some money to support yourself so you can get off welfare/public housing but they don't care...It is a neverending cycle.. If I have an emergency like needing a tooth pulled or car repairs..I have to decide..what's more important..that or food...or that or rent..etc.. I can't dig myself out...

in upper class households people don't lay awake at night and worry and cry because they need new tires for their car..I do that if I need an oil change for mine..because every dollar for me..is critical.