Social Mobility

Social Mobility

Social mobility is the movement up or down the social strata of a society.

What are the factors affecting social mobility?

Factors that affect social mobility include family background, employment opportunities and occupational structure. Another major influence is education which is again dependent on family background and their ability to provide opportunities of education.

Inter-generational Social Mobility

Individuals moving up or down the social strata relative to their parents class position.

Intra-generational Social Mobility

Individuals moving up or down the social strata within their lifetime.

Vertical

When it occurs up or down the social strata. For example, moving from middle class to working class as a result of long term unemployment.

Horizontal

When movement occurs within the same strata. For example, changing careers or positions that offer the same economic/social rewards.