In this dissertation, I look at differences in the experiences of individual and group relative deprivation among low wage workers and higher wage earners, as well as the referent choice preferences for workers of different earning classes. I studied the effects of underemployment on referent choice, individual relative deprivation, and group relative deprivation. I also examined the effect contact with higher earning classes had on feelings of individual relative deprivation. Finally, I conducted an exploratory analysis to see if low wage earners and higher wage earners experienced individual relative deprivation as a result of different facets of their work. The results indicate that individual income is a significant predictor of experiences of individual as well as group relative deprivation, and that individual income does not significantly predict choice of referent. Underemployment was a significant predictor of individual as well as group relative deprivation as well, with those individuals who reported higher levels of underemployment also reporting higher levels of individual and group relative deprivation. The exploratory analysis revealed that the facets of work that elicited feelings of individual relative deprivation were in fact different for low wage earners and higher wage earners, with lower wage earners primarily feeling resentful about meeting their basic needs and maintaining work. Higher wage earners were primarily resentful about the availability of work and the ability to have their voices heard at work. Theoretical implications and practical contributions, as well as limitations are also discussed.