Social class, or socio-economic class (SES), is a term that refers to the groups people are sorted into in society, and the characteristics that are less likely to change, such as the traits, behaviors, knowledge, and lifestyle that one is socialized into by one's family. Social class is determined by education, income, and occupation levels. It can also reflect unequal access to rights, resources, and power in society.  Social class is more important in determining a family's characteristics because socioeconomic levels better define what circles a family is part of. For example, poor... Show more

Social class, or socio-economic class (SES), is a term that refers to the groups people are sorted into in society, and the characteristics that are less likely to change, such as the traits, behaviors, knowledge, and lifestyle that one is socialized into by one's family. Social class is determined by education, income, and occupation levels. It can also reflect unequal access to rights, resources, and power in society. 

Social class is more important in determining a family's characteristics because socioeconomic levels better define what circles a family is part of. For example, poor families have fewer material resources and opportunities, and often live in neighborhoods and school districts that are less desirable. 
Children take on the socio-economic class standing of their parents and the culture of the class into which they are born, including its values, behavior patterns and definitions.

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