Leaving money to a child who suffers from a terrible drug addiction, for instance, could be his or her death sentence. Rich kids often grow up surrounded by private jets, designer wardrobes, elite education, and international travel. Their “normal” includes vacations in the Maldives, birthday parties that cost more than most people’s yearly salaries, and exclusive access to people and places that shape the world. Social media has amplified this image — accounts like Rich Kids of Instagram or Rich Kids of Dubai showcase supercars, yachts, and champagne-fueled lifestyles, turning wealth into performance art.
For many rich kids, the biggest luxury isn’t the cars or clothes — it’s access. Prestigious schools, powerful family networks, and exposure to global cultures often give them a head start in business, politics, or the arts. Many inherit family businesses or launch their own ventures with financial safety nets that allow them to take big risks. Yet, not all that glitters is gold. The children of the wealthy often face pressure to live up to family legacies, manage public perception, or find personal meaning beyond material comfort. Mental health issues, identity struggles, and social isolation are common themes among young heirs. Some rebel against their privilege; others use it for good through philanthropy and activism.
