i don't find that Norwegians tend to help each other with money when socialising, if one person has less.

my friend in Trondheim (who works a full-time job) barely paid a cent to help with costs, despite knowing what my finances look like usually.

you can be surrounded by people who have PLENTY of money to spare, but it's not acceptable to help a friend.

somehow, it's more acceptable to buy an expensive apartment or a flat screen TV than to pay $50 to help a friend.

he knows a girl who is on disability benefits. he kept inviting her to social events that cost too much money anyway, until she complained.

but he did not pay for our restaurant meals. he wanted me to come. why didn't he pay? he knew my situation. money was kept tight.

it's not a criticism of him. more of the mentality. it's rare that friends help with money.