Social Stratification: Social Mobility Quiz

Questions and Answers

What is social mobility?

The ability to change positions within a social stratification system (correct)

The movement of an individual from one job to another

The increase in social class through hard work

The decline in economic status

What does upward mobility refer to?

An increase in social class

In America, people who get a college degree, get a job promotion, or marry someone with good income may also experience upward mobility.

True

What is downward mobility?

A lowering of one's social class Signup and view all the answers

Downward mobility could happen because of: __________.

business setbacks, unemployment, illness, dropping out of school, divorce Signup and view all the answers

What is intergenerational mobility?

A difference in social class between members of the same generation Signup and view all the answers

What does intragenerational mobility mean?

A difference in social class between different members of the same generation Signup and view all the answers

What is structural mobility?

A societal change that enables a whole group of people to move up or down the class ladder Signup and view all the answers

Define vertical mobility.

The movement or displacement of individuals or groups from one social class to another Signup and view all the answers

What is horizontal mobility?

The movement of an individual from one social position to another of the same rank Signup and view all the answers

What does absolute mobility measure?

Whether living standards in a society have increased Signup and view all the answers

What is relative mobility?

How likely children are to move from their parents' place in the social hierarchy Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Social mobility refers to the ability to change positions within a social hierarchy, affecting one's social class status.

Upward Mobility

Upward mobility indicates an increase or upward shift in social class, often linked to significant life achievements.
The rate of individuals transitioning from poverty to wealth is notably low.

Factors Influencing Mobility

Attaining a college degree, job promotions, and marrying someone with a high income can facilitate upward mobility.

Downward Mobility

Downward mobility signifies a reduction in social class, potentially leading to economic hardships.

Causes of Downward Mobility

Contributing factors include business setbacks, unemployment, illness, dropping out of school, and divorce.

Types of Mobility

Intergenerational Mobility: Reflects the social class differences among members of the same generation, illustrating long-term societal stratification based on parental status.
Intragenerational Mobility: Describes social class differences among individuals within the same generation, highlighting variations in status throughout one's life.

Structural Mobility

Structural mobility occurs when societal changes enable entire groups to ascend or descend the social ladder, changing class dynamics broadly.

Vertical and Horizontal Mobility

Vertical Mobility: Involves movement between social classes—can be upward or downward.
Horizontal Mobility: Involves lateral movement to a different job or role at the same social class level, maintaining rank.

Absolute vs. Relative Mobility

Absolute Mobility: Measures living standard improvements, typically gauged by income comparisons between generations.
Relative Mobility: Examines the likelihood of children moving up or down in the social hierarchy compared to their parents.

Description

Test your knowledge on social mobility and its impact on social stratification. This quiz covers essential terms and concepts related to upward mobility and the factors that influence an individual's social class position. Perfect for students studying sociology or social sciences.