Differentiated Socialization: A Barrier to Social Mobility

Extract

[...] The other barrier to differentiated socialization on social mobility is the reproduction of social inequalities. Individuals from privileged backgrounds often have access to social networks and material and cultural resources that favor their social success What can condition a kind of socio-professional aspiration similar to that of their ancestors, limiting their opportunities for development and compromising their future social mobility. On the other hand, individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds may face greater obstacles to accessing education, employment, or other social opportunities. [...]

[...] Why is differentiated socialization a barrier to social mobility? Introduction The concept of socialization can be understood as a mechanism for transmitting and internalizing the culture and values, norms, and roles that govern how a society functions. On the other hand, differentiated socialization is a sociological concept that refers to the process by which individuals are socialized differently based on their gender, social class, ethnic origin, or any other factor of social differentiation. This differentiated socialization can have an influence on social mobility. [...]

[...] In other words, it is a matter of wondering why differentiated socialization is a barrier to social mobility? It will be our task, in the continuation of our work, to identify the different reasons that lead to the fact that differentiated socialization significantly hinders social mobility, both in childhood and in socio-professional orientation in adulthood. I. Existing obstacles from childhood . First of all, it is necessary to say that differentiated socialization is a barrier to social mobility from childhood, due to the fact that it creates inequalities from a very young age. [...]

[...] Differentiated socialization can generate psychological and cultural obstacles that limit social mobility at adulthood. Indeed, individuals socialized in a differentiated manner can internalize norms and expectations that restrict their aspirations and possibilities for evolution. For example, girls may be led to develop limiting beliefs regarding their abilities in certain professional fields, while individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds may experience a feeling of illegitimacy in relation to certain social spheres. These psychological and cultural obstacles can constitute significant barriers to social mobility at adulthood. [...]

[...] Differentiated socialization can influence individuals' professional choices. If we were to take a concrete example, we can observe that gender stereotypes can guide girls towards less socially valued educational tracks and occupations, while boys are encouraged to orient themselves towards more prestigious sectors. Similarly, cultural norms transmitted within different social groups can influence individuals' professional aspirations. This is what can explain, today, the low representation of women at a certain social level, unlike men. In several social groups, girls' socialization allows them to opt for professional activities that are reduced by their 'innate maternal character', thus preventing women's social mobility within these groups, to the benefit of men. [...]