A growing body of psychological research reveals that quiet, everyday behaviors in adulthood often hint at experiences of financial instability during childhood, according to a recent analysis published by YourTango citing studies from the Journal of Family and Economic Issues and additional expert commentary. The article, released on 24 May 2025, underscores how formative years marked by poverty or economic uncertainty leave lasting imprints—not just in spending habits but across one’s relationships, mental health, and view of stability.
For many in Thailand, where intergenerational wealth gaps and shifting economic landscapes continue to shape family life, these findings hold acute relevance. As youth poverty rates and social mobility remain under scrutiny, understanding the psychological scars of financial instability is essential for educators, health professionals, and policymakers alike (YourTango).
Growing up with economic anxiety, whether it stemmed from housing insecurity, food scarcity, or missed activities due to financial constraints, can foster what psychologists call a “scarcity mindset.” This mindset, according to the cited studies, manifests in adulthood through behaviors and attitudes that often go unnoticed but deeply influence one’s financial well-being, relationships, and even personal growth.
Among the most telling signals is a refusal to waste food—a behavior rooted in the memory of food insecurity, which experts say rarely fades with age or increased income. This extends to broader habits of resourcefulness, such as repairing broken items, stretching supplies, and resisting unnecessary purchases, even when there is no immediate financial threat. Psychotherapists explain these are protective strategies, ingrained to avoid sliding back into hardship (Journal of Family and Economic Issues).
Another quiet clue: a persistent “sacrifice” mentality. Adults who once experienced unstable finances as children may believe that saving always requires sacrifice or deprivation, sometimes to the point of sabotaging themselves—foregoing necessary pleasures or social outlets in an effort to avoid perceived financial doom. Over half of adults worldwide lack basic financial literacy, but such behaviors are especially pronounced among those from disadvantaged backgrounds (Business Horizons).
Hyperawareness of prices stands out, too. Whether shopping or dining out, some remain constantly vigilant about spending, often vocalizing concerns over costs or comparing prices for even the smallest expenses. This heightened alertness, while annoying to some peers, is in reality a vestige of survival mode: a reflex to prevent financial catastrophe.
Significantly, these adults often seek stability more than success, according to psychologist Dr. Ali Fenwick, as cited in the YourTango report. Growing up in poverty or unstable conditions means learning to fear risk rather than embrace opportunity. As a result, many eschew promotions or investments that could threaten their current sense of security, even if such caution limits their upward mobility.
The discomfort surrounding conversations about money is also prevalent. For many, such talks are colored by childhood shame—whether from being unable to afford the latest school uniform, being left out of social outings, or the unspoken tensions at home about bills and obligations. “Being uncomfortable talking about money is a common outcome of financial trauma,” notes Northwestern Mutual, as quoted in the analysis, reinforcing feelings of vulnerability in adulthood (Northwestern Mutual).
Refusing to accept money from others, whether as a gift or a loan, further highlights a deep-seated desire to retain control and avoid indebtedness—a theme also observed by psychotherapist Joyce Marter. This tendency persists even when external help could ease hardship, often intensifying stress and isolation (Harvard University).
Resourcefulness takes on new importance in this context. Adults raised in financially insecure homes are typically adept at “making do”—finding fixes, stretching food, or managing on tight budgets. While some see this as admirable self-sufficiency, psychologists caution that it may reinforce survival instincts at the expense of long-term planning or openness to support.
Preference for cash over digital transactions, secrecy about personal finances, and reluctance to ask for help further round out the ten key behaviors highlighted by the recent report. Cash is perceived as more tangible and controllable, while secrecy about income and finances may result from past “financial betrayal” or broken promises, eroding trust and openness in relationships. Finally, the inability to ask for help, despite dire need, is often the product of internalized shame and intensely private coping mechanisms.
In Thailand, many elements of these findings resonate with local experiences. Stories of children skipping school trips due to cost, families pooling small incomes to cover basics, or elders cautioning the younger generation to “save for a rainy day” reflect interwoven strands of personal history and cultural wisdom. Buddhist teachings about moderation and sufficiency—such as the “practical sufficiency economy” philosophy popularized by the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej—underscore the value of resourcefulness and living within one’s means (Royal Thai Government).
However, experts caution that overemphasizing sacrifice or secrecy may impede both personal and collective progress. Young Thais striving for financial stability should seek healthy financial literacy skills, cultivate openness within families about money concerns, and be willing to accept appropriate assistance or guidance when needed. Financial education in Thai schools has improved but still faces long-standing challenges in ensuring that students from all backgrounds gain the skills needed to succeed in a cashless, rapidly evolving economy (Bangkok Post).
Looking forward, as digital banking, gig work, and changing family structures shift how Thai people interact with money, recognizing the psychological roots of financial behavior is more vital than ever. Mental health professionals, teachers, and policymakers must work together to offer accessible resources for those dealing with financial trauma—not only to support individual well-being, but to help build a more resilient, equitable society.
For Thai readers, small steps can make a significant difference: practice open dialogue with trusted family members about finances, actively engage with financial literacy resources, and remember that seeking support reflects strength, not weakness. By addressing the quiet legacies of childhood instability—and building new, healthier habits—individuals and families alike can move toward lasting prosperity and peace of mind.
Sources: