Interclass segregation

Date and country of first publication^[1]

2006
United States

Definition

Interclass segregation refers to the separation of individuals from different social classes within a society. This separation can occur in various contexts, such as residential areas, educational institutions, workplaces, and social activities.

In terms of residential areas, interclass segregation commonly manifests as the division of neighborhoods into distinct sections based on socioeconomic status. Higher-income individuals often live in affluent areas with better amenities and services, while lower-income individuals are confined to less desirable neighborhoods with limited resources.

Interclass segregation can also be observed in educational institutions. Private schools, which typically cater to wealthier families, often provide superior educational opportunities compared to public schools, which generally serve lower-income communities. This discrepancy can perpetuate socioeconomic inequality by limiting access to quality education for certain individuals.

Workplaces also tend to exhibit interclass segregation. Higher-paying jobs with more opportunities for career advancement are often concentrated in specific industries or organizations that require higher levels of education and expertise. Consequently, individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may face barriers to entering these industries or organizations, limiting their upward mobility.

In social activities, interclass segregation can be seen in the separation of individuals based on their ability to afford certain leisure activities. Wealthier individuals have access to exclusive clubs, fine dining establishments, and luxurious vacations, further isolating them from those with lower incomes.

Interclass segregation has detrimental effects on society, as it reinforces social and economic inequalities. It can perpetuate a cycle of poverty and limit social mobility, making it difficult for individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds to improve their circumstances. It can also contribute to the creation of social divisions, hamper social integration, and reinforce stereotypes about different social classes.

Efforts to reduce interclass segregation involve promoting equal opportunities, access to quality education and healthcare, and affordable housing. Addressing this issue requires implementing policies and initiatives that aim to bridge the gap between social classes and promote social cohesion.

Related segregation forms

Interclass segregation is frequently discussed in the literature with the following segregation forms:

racial segregation

This visualization is based on the study The Multidisciplinary Landscape of Segregation Research.

For the complete network of interrelated segregation forms, please refer to:

First year of publication

Louvain clusters

Betweenness centrality

Disciplines in which segregation forms first emerged (Scopus database).

References

Notes

↑ Date and country of first publication as informed by the Scopus database (December 2023).

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