The Impact of Relative Deprivation on Happiness and Wellbeing

Relative deprivation is a psychological phenomenon that highlights the disparity between how individuals perceive their own circumstances in comparison to others. This perception often manifests as a feeling of being worse off, leading to emotional distress and diminishing happiness. Interestingly, many people experience these feelings of deprivation even when they possess more than the average person; it’s not about absolute lack but rather the subjective comparisons we make with those around us. For instance, our perfectly functioning car may feel inadequate the moment we catch sight of a colleague’s shiny new vehicle, igniting feelings of envy and dissatisfaction.

This cycle of comparison can create an ongoing sense of frustration, influencing not only our emotional well-being but also our overall quality of life. Psychologists assert that these feelings stem from social comparisons rather than objective evaluations of one’s situation. It raises an important question: how do we navigate this landscape where external perceptions can cloud our appreciation for what we have? Understanding relative deprivation allows us to explore deeper issues surrounding self-worth and fulfillment while encouraging healthier perspectives on our lives and achievements. By recognizing the impact that societal standards and peer observations have on our mental state, we open up paths towards greater contentment and resilience in an increasingly competitive world.

Introduction: Why We Feel Poor When We Have Plenty

Relative deprivation describes the sensation of feeling deprived not solely in absolute terms but rather through comparisons with others or a specific benchmark. Our brains are naturally inclined to evaluate our circumstances in relation to those around us and within a given context. When it comes to wealth and material possessions, we assess our financial situation by contrasting it with that of our peers.

Individuals consistently engage in self-comparison concerning their circumstances; this is an inherent aspect of human cognition. We compare not only tangible assets but also social standing, life experiences, and even levels of hardship (Ariely, 2010; Lerner, 2005). Nevertheless, while comparison is a common cognitive process for all of us, it does not necessarily imply that such evaluations are beneficial. The criteria we use for these comparisons and the extent to which we rely on them can lead to undue stress and dissatisfaction.

A ‘happiness index’ that evaluated various countries around the globe, surprisingly found Nigeria—one of the poorest nations with limited access to modern conveniences—ranked first in reported happiness levels among its citizens. In contrast, the United States placed a disappointing 46th out of 50 countries surveyed. The key distinction lies in Nigeria’s cultural outlook, which tends not to prioritize an ego-driven pursuit of more possessions and status. This mindset often revolves around desires for excess, inherently fostering feelings of scarcity and inadequacy: ‘I don’t have enough.’ As a result, focusing on abundance can ironically lead individuals to resonate with experiences related to lack and deprivation throughout their lives (Dyer, 2011).

History

​The concept of relative deprivation is credited to sociologist Samuel Stouffer, who developed the theory while studying social psychology during World War II. Stouffer discovered that soldiers measured their success not against the standards set by the military but from comparison with other soldiers in their units.

In one of the first formal definitions of relative deprivation, Walter Runciman listed four preconditions:

• Person A does not have (X)
• Person A knows of other persons that have (X)
• Person A wants to have (X)
• Person A believes obtaining (X) is realistic

Individual and Group Relative Deprivation

Individual relative deprivation occurs when we assess our personal circumstances in relation to another individual, often leading to feelings of inadequacy or envy. This type of comparison is frequently made within our immediate social circles, such as family, friends, or colleagues. Referred to as egotistical relative deprivation, it highlights how our sense of self-worth can be influenced by others’ achievements and possessions. For instance, if a person sees a coworker receiving recognition for their contributions while they feel overlooked in similar efforts, this individual may experience heightened feelings of deprivation and frustration. Such comparisons can fuel competition rather than collaboration and ultimately detract from one’s overall happiness.

On the other hand, group relative deprivation involves comparing the status or resources of one’s entire group against that of other groups (Smith & Huo, 2014). This phenomenon is known as fraternal relative deprivation and emphasizes how collective perceptions can shape group identity and cohesion.

For example, members of an underrepresented community might feel deprived when they observe more privileged groups enjoying greater access to opportunities—be it education, employment, or social services. When these individuals perceive their group as disadvantaged compared to others (such as different ethnicities or socioeconomic classes), it can foster a sense of collective grievance that drives social movements aimed at equality and justice. Understanding both forms of relative deprivation helps illuminate the broader societal impacts that arise from personal comparisons and shared experiences within communities.

Relative Deprivation and Wellness

Relative deprivation refers to the perception of being worse off than others in terms of resources, opportunities, or social status. One moment, our state of life is comfortable and enjoyable. The next minute, you look out the front window and see all your neighbors apparently living a little better than you. Your comfort joy quickly dissolves in the world of comparison. Not only do we perceive that they have more, we also judge that they must be better than us because they have more.

The consumer based market fosters these feelings. The internal pangs that we are not doing well because neighbors drive better cars has nothing to do with whether we are a good person or even to do with our financial stability. Yet, we feel what we feel. Clive Hamilton and Richard Denniss wrote, “This cultivation of a sense of deprivation in the midst of plenty is essential to the reproduction of consumerism. For people infected by affluenza, more is never enough, yet they fail to understand that more consumption will not allay their feeling of discontent” (Hamilton & Denniss, 2005).

Here’s how it impacts wellness:

• Emotional Well-Being: When individuals compare themselves unfavorably to others and perceive their position as disadvantaged, feelings of relative deprivation arise. This can lead to lower happiness and overall well-being (Cho & Kim, 2024).
• Health Outcomes: Persistent feelings of relative deprivation can affect physical health. Despite reductions in absolute poverty, worsening relative poverty contributes to stress-related health issues.

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In summary, recognizing and addressing relative deprivation is crucial for promoting well-being.

Minimizing the Negative Impact of Relative Deprivation

The negative impact from relative deprivation is a cognition. It is a process of judging and comparing. Basically, it is a learned behavior. Accordingly, it can be mitigated and replaced. Largely, we change cognitions by making new habits of thoughts through cognitively reframing the judgements. The objects in our environment we choose to focus on become the basis of our judgements. Through purposeful effort, we can relieve ourselves from unnecessary judgements of deprivation.

With a shift of attention, our smooth running fourteen year-old Toyota Corolla, in a neighborhood of Teslas, may regain its status as a reliable and practicable mode of transportation.

Unfair Comparisons

Part of the problem with comparison is that we often compare only a few observable pieces. For example, when I drive my Corolla to the grocery store and park next to a brand new Camry. My car is far inferior, at least in performance and luxury. However, this comparison is only a minute part of financial status. My Corolla has been paid off for twelve years. My conservative financial lifestyle benefits me in many other ways, including a nice house in a nice neighborhood. Beyond finances, a car does not represent character traits, quality of relationships, or other measurable and non-measurable elements in our lives.

Basically, the simple comparison of cars fails in many, many ways. We can boost our self-esteem, self-confidence and the quality of our lives if we learn to minimize irrelevant social comparisons. Instead of going out and getting in dept to keep up with the Joneses, the momentary flashes of perceptual deprivation can motivate a healthier response or reviewing one’s current financial status, and comparing it with one’s personal goals.

Accordingly, this wise reaction to normal pains of inferiority can be redirected to healthy and responsible choices.

Several Strategies for Minimizing the Impact of Relative Deprivation

We can shift our perception of deprivation in a number of ways to relieve the negative affects of momentary senses of inferiority.

Here are some of them:

• Gratitude: Cultivate gratitude by focusing on what you have rather than what you lack. Regularly acknowledge and appreciate the positives in your life.
• Social Comparison: Be mindful of social comparisons. Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on personal growth and progress.
• Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable goals based on your own values and aspirations. Avoid unrealistic comparisons with others.
• Community and Connection: Build strong social connections. Engage in activities that foster a sense of belonging and shared experiences.
• Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness to reduce negative thoughts and increase self-awareness. Mindfulness helps you accept the present moment without judgment.
• Self-Compassion: Treat yourself kindly during challenging times. Acknowledge your struggles without harsh self-criticism.

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Remember, relative deprivation is a perception, and shifting your mindset can positively impact your well-being.

Associated Concepts:

• Self-Esteem: This is a psychological concept that refers to a person’s overall evaluation and perception of their own worth or value. It involves the thoughts, beliefs, feelings, and judgments an individual holds about themselves.
• Looking Glass Theory: This theory, also known as the Cooley’s Looking-Glass Self, is a concept proposed by Charles Horton Cooley, suggesting that a person’s self-concept is primarily formed through their perception of how others view them.
• Perception: this refers to the way in which something is understood or interpreted by an individual, often involving the use of the senses and the cognitive processes. It encompasses the way we see, hear, taste, touch, and smell things, as well as the mental interpretation of those sensory experiences.
• Self-Perception Theory: This psychological theory that suggests people develop their attitudes and beliefs by observing their behavior and the context in which it occurs.
• Self-Categorization Theory: This theory delves into how individuals perceive themselves within social groups, exploring personal and social identities, levels of abstraction, depersonalization, determinants of categorization, prototypicality, and social influence.
• Self-Labels: These judgements influence self-perception, behavior, and interactions with others, contributing to the formation of self-concept and identity. In some cases, self-labels can also be influenced by external factors such as societal norms, cultural expectations, and social comparisons.

A Few Words from Psychology Fanatic

We compare. We learn from observations. Often our observations of others can ignite goals, motivate action, and create a better life. The down side of comparison is the sense of deprivation when objectively we are not destitute. Often our comparing brain instead of motivating action invites sorrow. Basically, we long for what we don’t have and overlook the bountiful blessings surrounding us.

We treat our sense of lack with gratitude. We still fight group injustices, identify goals, and chase dreams. Lastly, we protect against unnecessary disappointments by cherishing the gifts that gracefully bless our lives. 

Last Update: January 10, 2026

References:

Ariely, Dan (2010). Predictably Irrational, Revised and Expanded Edition: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions. Harper Perennial; Revised and Expanded ed. edition. ISBN 10: 0061353248
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Cho, A., & Kim, H. Hs. (2024). Perceived Unfairness Moderates the Association Between Relative Deprivation and Subjective Well-Being: Findings from an East Asian Country. Applied Research in Quality of Life. Advance online publication. DOI: 10.1007/s11482-024-10336-7 
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Dyer, Wayne W. (2009). Excuses Begone!: How to Change Lifelong, Self-Defeating Thinking Habits. Hay House Inc. ISBN: 9781401922948
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Hamilton, Clive; Denniss, Richard (2005). Affluenza: When too much is never enough. Allen & Unwin. ISBN: 1741146712
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Lerner, Harriet (2005). The Dance of Fear: Rising Above Anxiety, Fear, and Shame to Be Your Best and Bravest Self. ‎Perennial Currents; Reprint edition. ISBN-10: 0060081589
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Smith, H., & Huo, Y. (2014). Relative Deprivation. Policy Insights from the Behavioral and Brain Sciences, 1(1), 231-238. DOI: 10.1177/23727322145501
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