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At some point in their lives, many people have felt inferior to their colleagues, friends, neighbors, or peers. Social media constantly showcases people living their 'best life,' while the media and movies often glorify rags-to-riches stories. So it's no surprise that another term in the mental health realm is doing the rounds. "Status anxiety" refers to the fear or concern about how one is perceived in terms of social status, achievements, or success, relative to others. And thanks to the digital world, it's a growing concern. We take a look at where status anxiety originated, how social media has exacerbated the condition, and what we can do if we are feeling less worthy than others due to our place in the world. Click on the gallery to dive in.
The term "status anxiety" was popularized by Alain de Botton, a Swiss-British philosopher and author, in his 2004 book titled Status Anxiety. The book examines how people's concerns about their social standing and fear of falling short in comparison to others have intensified in modern society.
While the concept of anxiety related to social status has been discussed in philosophy, sociology, and psychology for centuries, de Botton is credited with coining and framing "status anxiety" as a distinct term.
Status anxiety stems from the desire to be respected, admired, and recognized within a community or society, and the fear of falling short of these expectations.
It is believed to be exacerbated by economic inequality and to negatively affect well-being. This prevalent sense of insecurity and comparison can lead to increased stress, depression, and a diminished quality of life.
Status or class anxiety has been around for centuries, often rooted in societal structures that differentiate people based on wealth, occupation, education, and social standing. Historically, these divides were most rigid in societies with strict class systems, such as feudal Europe or caste-based systems.
The caste system in India is a hierarchical social structure that divides people into distinct groups based on birth, occupation, and social status. Traditionally, it consists of four main varnas (classes) — Brahmins (priests and scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and farmers), and Shudras (laborers) — with a fifth group, the Dalits (formerly known as "Untouchables"), historically marginalized and oppressed.
While caste based discrimination is officially outlawed in India, its legacy still influences social dynamics and inequalities. This includes marriage practices, where it is very common for individuals to avoid marrying someone seen as less than in status, from a lower caste.
In modern times, status anxiety is still prevalent, though it may manifest differently. People worry about how others perceive their social and economic position, especially in a culture that places heavy emphasis on material success, status symbols, and social media portrayals of wealth and achievement.
Signs of status anxiety include persistent comparison with others, feelings of inadequacy or inferiority, stress over achieving material success or social validation and preoccupation with how others perceive one's achievements or lifestyle.
This anxiety can influence personal relationships, career choices, and mental health, as individuals feel pressure to meet certain standards or achieve a desired status.
Status anxiety and social media are closely intertwined, as social media platforms amplify the pressure to compare oneself to others.
People highlight achievements, vacations, appearances, and material possessions, which can fuel feelings of inadequacy and fear of missing out (FOMO) in those who perceive themselves as not measuring up.
Social media, media portrayals, and peer groups often highlight the success, wealth, or achievements of others, intensifying self-comparison.
Cultural or societal norms that equate status with wealth, career success, or material possessions can fuel anxiety.
Fear of judgment emanates from the concern of being seen as a failure or losing respect if one doesn't meet perceived standards of success.
In a competitive environment, the struggle to maintain or improve one's financial or social standing can also trigger status anxiety.
Status anxiety can lead to stress, depression, and a sense of unworthiness. It may foster overworking, excessive ambition, or materialism. And it can strain relationships due to envy, competitiveness, or dissatisfaction.
A "luxury belief" is a term popularized by social scientist Rob Henderson to describe certain ideas or values that signal high social status among the wealthy or privileged, but can have negative consequences for less advantaged individuals.
These beliefs are typically held by those who are insulated from the negative consequences of such ideas, allowing them to signal virtue or sophistication without experiencing the associated hardships.
For example, advocating for policies that limit economic growth or promote radical social changes might seem progressive and enlightened to those in privileged positions. But these same policies can lead to job losses, reduced opportunities, and increased hardship for those in lower socioeconomic strata.
Another example of a "luxury belief" is among affluent individuals, where dismissing marriage may signal progressiveness. These individuals often have the resources to maintain stability without the traditional institution of marriage.
However, in less privileged communities, where marriage can provide financial and emotional support, its decline is linked to economic struggles and fewer resources for raising children, deepening inequality.
As a result, luxury beliefs can exacerbate social inequalities, class divides and create further divisions and hierarchies within society.
Wealth signifies status; for example, flying "first class" symbolizes that those who can afford the privilege should be better looked after, more comfortable, and prioritized over the rest of the passengers
While cruise lines no longer have "classes" (think Titanic style), they do still have different grades of service. These varying levels of service, from standard cabins to opulent suites, reflect modern luxury beliefs—where the upper echelons of society can signal their status through exclusive amenities and personalized experiences.
This stratification can contribute to status anxiety, as individuals compare their accommodations and experiences, often leading to a sense of inadequacy among those in less luxurious settings.
Coping with status anxiety involves focusing on intrinsic values rather than seeking external validation. Limiting social media exposure can help reduce unhealthy comparisons, while practicing gratitude for what you have, rather than dwelling on what you lack, fosters a more positive outlook.
Additionally, redefining personal success based on fulfillment and happiness, rather than societal metrics, can lead to a more content and balanced life.
Sources: (The Wall Street Journal) (Times of India) (Paul Arnesen) (City Journal) (The Sydney Morning Herald)
See also: Say goodbye to financial shame with 'loud budgeting'
Status anxiety in the digital age: How 'luxury beliefs' shape modern social climbing
Unpacking the hidden pressures of modern social hierarchies
HEALTH Status anxiety
At some point in their lives, many people have felt inferior to their colleagues, friends, neighbors, or peers. Social media constantly showcases people living their 'best life,' while the media and movies often glorify rags-to-riches stories. So it's no surprise that another term in the mental health realm is doing the rounds. "Status anxiety" refers to the fear or concern about how one is perceived in terms of social status, achievements, or success, relative to others. And thanks to the digital world, it's a growing concern. We take a look at where status anxiety originated, how social media has exacerbated the condition, and what we can do if we are feeling less worthy than others due to our place in the world. Click on the gallery to dive in.