Lived Experience Of Middle-Class Families In Inflation

Abstract

The purpose of current research was to explore the lived experience of middle-class families in inflation and to gain a comprehensive understanding of how people cope with this situation. Using a qualitative approach, this study applied thematic analysis to examine the underlying themes and sub-themes that characterize the lived experiences of middle-class families in the context of economic inflation. In the present study, in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 men and 10 women (N = 20) using a semi-structured interview guide. The results were analyzed using thematic analysis (Braun& Clarke, 2006), and eight main themes were extracted, including financial strains, psychological and emotional impact, family dynamics, social isolation, health impact, Lifestyle Changes/ lifestyle adaptation to rising prices, Inflationary Pressure and Economic Struggle, and Covid-19 Economic Fallout on Middle Class. This study aims to contribute to the theoretical literature on lived experience of middle-class families in inflation. Overall, these findings illustrate the significant psychological strain placed on middle-class families as a result of inflation.