To me, it sounds more like they have lived a European life, not a sheltered life. Outside of the UK, there aren’t any European countries I know of that use e.g. credit cards on a daily basis. We are taught to avoid taking on debt and are financially risk-averse.
Isn't that how most people use their credit cards everywhere, or at least everywhere in the developed world? I thought the 20%+ interest was just a way to take advantage of you if you mess up and rack up too big a bill, or forget to pay your bill.
Anecdata, but I know multiple people that I associate with do caray a balance on their cards and by paying minimums. I don’t understand it, but then again I’m fortunate enough to have a software job that allows me to keep up with my social lifestyle without incurring debt.
