Dealing with socioeconomic class differences

After yesterday's rousing post on a fight I had with an ex, also known as a conflict over socioeconomic class differences, let's talk about what to do if your end up in a similar situation.

Photo credit: http://drivenleaders.com

Okay, so you probably won't fight with a partner about the SATs, but chances are that as a first generation or low income college student you will face some sort of adversity based on socioeconomic status... If you find yourself in a conflict over socioeconomic class differences, here are 5 tips to manage the conflict:

Take a step back. Instead of assuming the worst, think about your own preconceptions and perceptions about socioeconomic class differences. Don't assume that your way of thinking is the correct way or that there is only one way to think about it.

Keep your cool. Although it can feel like a personal attack on you, your family, and community, don't take it personally. Try to stay objective and keep your feelings out of it. And no name calling.

Listen with openness. As you talk through the conflict, stop thinking about your counter-argument and actually listen. Just because you think you disagree doesn't mean that you actually disagree.

Look for common ground. Try to think about it from another perspective and see if there is something you can empathize with. Think of it as an opportunity to improve your own understanding and self-knowledge.

Make peace with it. A conflict over socioeconomic class differences isn't going to be solved in one conversation. Think about next steps and work together to agree on something, even if that is to agree to disagree.

Yeah, there is no magic solution to making conflicts over socioeconomic class differences go away. But these tips can help you manage those types of conflicts.

Got questions? Please feel free to ask The Advisor about it.