It is more down to the morals of the individuals. People who have the drive to set up their own business to provide for themselves are always going to have more pride and respect for themselves than people who sit and wait on freebies knowing that they are getting more than they should.
Two examples I know personally - guy sets up his own little business after working since leaving school. After 2 years finds he is getting in over his head and it is not working. He goes back to paid employment, but owes one supplier a considerable amount of money. It has taken probably more than 3 years, but that supplier has been paid back every penny they are owed, slowly, but surely.
Girl around same age, left school early, even though could have well stayed on at least to Leaving Cert. Couple of jobs here and there but nothing consistent or long term, even at a time when there were much more jobs than people. Ends up drawing unmarried mothers benefit for 4 children, low rent house, lives with partner (tradesman, who made a fortune during boom) Social welfare came knocking one day (I reckon it was tip off from neighbours) Signs off. No investigation into thousands defrauded over the years, just left like that. Life goes on with no hassle, only a bit less money.Ah well, it was good while it lasted kind of attitude.