The social class of your family and friends significantly influences your health, according to research by scientists at Ghent University.
Socio-economic differences in social networks translate into health disparities. Individuals with many middle-class friends and family members report feeling healthier than those whose networks are predominantly working-class.
Your Social Circle Matters
Previous studies highlighted the role of personal socio-economic status in health outcomes. Now, a Ghent University study of 815 Belgian adults reveals that the social class of friends and family is equally crucial for self-reported health—even independent of one's own social class and education level. The social class of mere acquaintances plays a lesser role.
Why Does This Happen?
Middle-class contacts provide more reliable material and emotional support, which partly explains these health benefits. Researchers also suspect they offer guidance on healthy eating, exercise routines, and accessing quality healthcare.
Read also: Chocolate for breakfast aids weight management.
Those closest to you have the biggest impact on your health—even in England. The same pattern emerged in a study of over 20,000 British adults, where friends' and family's influence was even stronger than in Belgium.
