Affluenza is a term that describes the harmful effects of extreme wealth and the excessive lifestyle that often accompanies it. It is a condition that not only affects adults but also children, particularly those from uber-rich families. While there are certainly benefits to growing up in an affluent environment, the negative impact of Affluenza on children can be severe and long-lasting. 

We will explore the harmful effects of Affluenza on uber-rich children and the ways in which parents can mitigate these effects.

Affluenza can lead to a sense of entitlement

Firstly, Affluenza can lead to a sense of entitlement in children. When children grow up with access to everything they could ever want, they may begin to believe that they are entitled to these things and do not need to work hard to earn them. This can lead to a lack of motivation and drive, which can ultimately limit their potential in life. Furthermore, this entitlement can also lead to a lack of empathy and concern for others. Children who have everything handed to them on a silver plate may struggle to understand the struggles of less fortunate people.

Affluenza can cause a skewed sense of values

Another harmful effect of Affluenza on uber-rich children is the development of a skewed sense of values. Children who grow up in a wealthy environment may come to believe that material possessions are the most important things in life. They may prioritize owning the latest gadgets, designer clothing, and expensive cars over developing meaningful relationships, pursuing hobbies or interests, or contributing to their community. This can lead to a shallow and unfulfilling life, where the pursuit of wealth and status takes precedence over personal growth and development.

Affluenza can impact a child's mental health

The pressure to maintain a certain lifestyle can be overwhelming, even for children. The constant need to keep up appearances, to attend the right schools, to wear the right clothes, and to associate with the right people can be a significant source of stress and anxiety. Moreover, the sense of isolation that often comes with great wealth can also take a toll on a child's mental health. Children who grow up in affluent households may struggle to make meaningful connections with others and may feel a sense of loneliness and alienation that can lead to depression and other mental health issues.

Affluenza limit exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences

Another way in which Affluenza can harm uber-rich children is by limiting their exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences. Wealthy families often live in gated communities or exclusive neighbourhoods, attend elite private schools, and travel in exclusive social circles. While these experiences can certainly be enriching, they can also limit a child's exposure to people and ideas outside of their narrow social bubble. This can lead to a lack of empathy and understanding for those who come from different backgrounds or have different experiences.

So, what can parents do to mitigate the harmful effects of Affluenza on their children? 

One important step for parents is to instil a sense of gratitude and humility into their children. This can be done by encouraging them to volunteer, to donate to charity, or to participate in community service projects. By exposing their children to less fortunate people, parents can help them develop a greater appreciation for what they have and a deeper understanding of the struggles that others face.

Parents can also encourage their children to pursue meaningful hobbies and interests outside of their wealth and status. By encouraging their children to explore their passions, whether it be music, art, or sports, parents can help their children develop a sense of purpose and fulfilment that goes beyond material possessions.

Moreover, parents can also take steps to ensure that their children are exposed to diverse perspectives and experiences. This can be done by encouraging their children to attend public state schools or to participate in extracurricular activities that bring them into contact with people from different backgrounds. Parents can also expose their children to different cultures and ways of life by travelling (not in a private jet) to different parts of the world and engaging with people from backgrounds and levels of wealth very different to theirs.

After working with the young for over 30 years, our world-leading team of coaches/trainers are very experienced working with 'Affluenzas'. Please get in touch with me if you want to know more or need help.