Verified by 
Can the same traits that make a person successful also make it difficult for a person to succeed?
Affluent communities develop their own cultural norms. People living in affluent communities tend to be educated, assertive and independent. Often these very strengths that help an individul become successful can be the very traits that make it difficult for them to ask for help. People may assume that because affluent families have money, they do not face the same problems as people in different economic classes.
This past week several parents have contacted me with a common concern. Their adult children have run into very difficult times whether it is drugs, losing their job or using poor judgment that has resulted in catastrophic consequences for themselves and their families. All of these families live in affluent and competitive communities where accomplishments are measured by financial and educational success. It is expected that if you are a successful and financially stable parent that your child will attend college and be successful as an adult. When a child does not succeed, the mother and father may feel they have failed as parents. These parents tend to blame themselves, in one way or another, for their child's misfortune. Parents have spoken about feeling ashamed, embarrassed and uncertain on how to respond to friends and family members on this particular issue. Some parents feared that others would take pleasure in their misfortunes. The truth is good parents can raise children, who as adults make poor decisions.
Parents living in affluent communities often find it difficult to reach out for help. As a result of feeling ashamed and embarrassed, these families tend to suffer silently and become further isolated. The persona of the perfect family is shattered and leaves these affluent families feeling vulnerable within their communities.
Generally, it is the husband that works long hours and it is the mother who is left with the responsibility of raising their children. Mothers in affluent communities, as a result, of feeling isolated and pressured to maintain a perfect persona have a high incidence of depression, anxiety, and alcoholism.
There is help for affluent families even though it may be difficult for them to reach out. The best solution is to find psychotherapist who understands the issues and cultural norms of affluent families or to find local community support group.
©2009 Wanda Behrens Horrell, All Rights Reserved
