Some of the most compelling conversations using the "Getting Ahead..." materials arise from the study of "hidden" class rules.  Think about your home, social settings, work, church, etc. and you will begin to identify hidden rules in your surroundings, those to share with an acquaintance to ease the transition into an unfamiliar environment.  Similar rules exist for people who live in poverty, middle class, and wealth. 

One of the mutually fascinating conversations arose with the simple question of, "What do you do when you get home?"  For many investigators shoes come off at the door and one of the first stops is in the kitchen.  One investigator asked if people really leave their keys outside in a fake rock or under a door mat?  She assumed that was only something done in the movies and on TV; incomprehensible to her.  She and another investigator concurred they do not enter their home with their children, the children wait outside, until she* is able to go in and ensure there is no one under the beds, in the shower, no one lurking unbeknownst to her.  Both cannot imagine what it would feel like to walk into their home, actually relaxed and not involuntarily programmed to inventory belongings, to go on about their business.  Other investigators have a dog to minimize the anxiety and fear resulting from their vulnerability. 
*I emphasize the female role as most households in poverty are matriarchal.   

Can you imagine going home and the first emotion is fear of what may be awaiting inside?   I cannot.  It is a foreign concept to me after being raised in the country where leaving doors and windows unlocked is commonplace.  Until you experience first-hand the struggle families experience to survive, you would never know the intricacies hiding behind their eyes.  Open your mind. 

"Whenever you feel like criticizing anyone... just remember that all of the people in this world haven't had the advantages you've had." 
~ F. Scott Fitzgerald