A major study has revealed that low-income children forming friendships across economic divides can lead to greater social mobility, with an increase of £5,100 annually as adults. Utilizing anonymised Facebook data and official statistics, researchers identified that communities with higher economic connectedness facilitate these friendships, often cultivated through schools and recreation activities. The research underscores the benefits of diverse social networks and shows that affluent areas tend to have more cross-class friendships, enhancing growth opportunities for children in need.
Friendships bridging economic divides can increase social mobility; low-income children in economically connected communities can earn an additional £5,100 annually as adults.
The study highlights how low-income children benefit significantly from growing up in communities with higher levels of friendship across socioeconomic groups.
Areas with more economically connected communities offer low-income children better opportunities, indicating that social networks play a crucial role in determining income levels.
Dr. Antonio Silva emphasizes that while wealth is a factor in friendship circles, economic connectedness is a significant predictor of social mobility, second only to income.
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