Social Mobility Overview

A change in a person's social position, either upward or downward, within their lifetime. Think of it as moving up or down the social ladder.

Change in the social position of an individual or group of individuals from one status to another. Think about moving from one rung to another on a social ladder.

A change in occupation that keeps the overall social position and prestige roughly the same. It's like switching jobs, such as going from a doctor to a university professor, without a significant change in status.

A change in the social position of a person or group that involves a significant change in their status, often due to changes in their occupation, economic standing, or political power. Think of it as moving up or down the social ladder.

The movement of a person or group from a lower social position to a higher one. It's like climbing the social ladder.

The movement of a person or group from a higher social position to a lower one. It's like sliding down the social ladder.

The change in social status happening between generations, meaning a parent's status differs from their child's. Think about social change happening across families.

The desire and effort of individuals to improve their social standing, often driven by the openness of a society. Think about the drive to achieve a better life and social position.

Exceptional achievements and efforts that lead to recognition and an improvement in an individual's social status. Think about accomplishments that elevate someone's position in society.

Acts of misconduct or negative events that can result in a decline in a person's social standing. Think about a person being punished for wrongdoings, leading to social consequences.

The acquisition of knowledge and skills through formal education, which paves the way for better opportunities and social advancement. Think about how education opens doors to better jobs and social standing.

The development of specific abilities and expertise, attained through training, that can enhance social standing and access to better job opportunities. Think about gaining specialized skills that lead to desirable roles.

The movement of people from one geographical area to another, often driven by a desire for better employment, education, or living conditions. Think about people relocating for opportunities.

The growth of industries, leading to a rise in new job opportunities and a reordering of social classes based on merit and skills rather than traditional factors like birthright.

The growth of cities, leading to anonymity and less reliance on traditional social structures, creating opportunities for social advancement based on individual merit and achievements.

The enactment of laws and policies that can significantly impact social mobility, often by promoting equality and providing opportunities for advancement. Think about laws designed to improve the lives of disadvantaged groups.

A society characterized by a rigid hierarchy based on birthright, with very limited opportunity for social mobility. Think about a system where social position is fixed, even if you try hard.

A society characterized by a less rigid hierarchy, with more opportunity for social mobility based on individual effort and achievements. Think about a system where you can improve your social position through hard work.

The system of social hierarchy based on birthright, with very limited opportunity for social mobility. Think about a caste system where your status is determined by your birth.

The system of social hierarchy based on economic standing, with more opportunity for social mobility based on individual effort and achievements. Think about a class system where your position can change based on your success.

The rate at which social mobility occurs in a society, measured by how quickly people move between social positions. Think about how quickly the social hierarchy changes and people climb or fall in their status.

The process where individuals or groups are assimilated into a higher social stratum, essentially achieving a higher social position. Think about integrating into a higher social group.

The process where individuals or groups decline in their social status, losing their existing social position. Think about slipping down the social ladder.