Are Children significantly influenced by the social class into which they are socialized?

In the United States, a person’s social class has far-reaching consequences. Social class refers to the the grouping of individuals in a stratify hierarchy on wealth, income, education, occupation, and social network (though other factors are sometimes consider). One’s position in the social class hierarchy may impact, for example, health, family life, education, religious affiliation, political participation, and experience with the criminal justice system.

Social class in the United States is a controversial issue, with social scientists disagreeing over models, definitions, and even the basic question of whether or not distinct classes exist. Many Americans believe in a simple three-class model that includes the rich or upper class, the middle class, and the poor or working class. More complex models that have been propose by social scientists describe as many as a dozen class levels. Regardless of which model of social classes is in use. It is clear that socioeconomic status (SES) is tie to particular opportunities and resources. Socioeconomic status refers to a person’s position in the social hierarchy and is determine by their income, wealth, occupational prestige, and educational attainment.