Can You Tell Someone's Wealth By Their Face?

A groundbreaking study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology in 2018 reveals a fascinating link between a person's wealth and their facial appearance. The study, conducted by researchers R-Thora Bjorsdottir and Nicholas O. Rule, suggests that our life experiences leave subtle marks on our faces, impacting how others perceive our social status.

Wealth and Facial Expressions

The researchers explored the connection between socioeconomic status and facial features, building upon the well-established link between wealth and social class. The study used 80 photographs of men and 80 photographs of women, all displaying neutral expressions with no accessories. Participants were tasked with guessing the social class of individuals based solely on their facial appearance. Remarkably, 68% of participants accurately identified the social class of the individuals in the photographs.

While many participants couldn't articulate how they made such accurate guesses, the researchers further investigated specific facial features. Focusing on the eyes and mouth alone, participants were still able to correctly determine the social class. This finding points to the subtle yet profound impact of life experiences on our facial expressions. Over time, our faces become a reflection of our emotions, experiences, and overall well-being.

As researcher Nicholas O. Rule explains, "Over time, your face reflects your life experiences. Even when we think we're not expressing emotions, those expressions are still there." The study emphasizes that our facial expressions, even when we think they're hidden, leave a lasting impact on our facial structure. These subtle changes, often imperceptible to the naked eye, become noticeable to others, influencing their perceptions of our social status.

Consequences of Face-Based Perceptions

The study's findings reveal a complex relationship between facial appearance, socioeconomic status, and social perception. While this ability to discern social class from facial features might seem harmless, it can lead to negative consequences. Individuals with a "wealthy face" often receive preferential treatment, potentially perpetuating existing inequalities and contributing to the cycle of poverty.

As Rule cautions, "Face-based perceptions of social class can have significant consequences, including contributing to the cycle of poverty." These perceptions can lead to biased treatment, influencing opportunities and social interactions in ways that disadvantage individuals perceived as belonging to lower socioeconomic classes.

The study's findings highlight the importance of acknowledging the impact of facial expressions on social perceptions. It serves as a reminder of the potential biases that can influence our interactions, ultimately impacting opportunities and social mobility.