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Regional variation in intergenerational social mobility in Britain
1Nuffield College, Oxford, UK.
The British Journal of Sociology
|April 12, 2024
Summary
This study provides the first regional estimates of intergenerational social mobility in Great Britain. It reveals how where someone grows up significantly impacts their social mobility, comparable to parental social class.
Area of Science:
- Sociology
- Social Stratification
- Geographic Inequality
Background:
- Intergenerational social mobility varies significantly across regions.
- Previous research has not comprehensively quantified this regional variation.
- The influence of geographic origin on social mobility is under-researched.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide the first comprehensive estimates of intergenerational social mobility variation across regions of Great Britain.
- To compare the impact of region of upbringing versus parental social class on social mobility.
- To explore the creation of a social mobility index based on regional data.
Main Methods:
- Utilized UK Labour Force Survey data.
- Defined regions using the Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics (NUTS) classification at NUTS1 and NUTS3 levels.
- Analyzed data across England, Wales, and Scotland.
Main Results:
- Presented detailed estimates of regional variation in social mobility.
- Quantified the relative importance of region of upbringing versus parental social class.
- Demonstrated significant differences in social mobility based on geographic location.
Conclusions:
- Region of upbringing is a critical factor influencing an individual's social mobility.
- Findings highlight the importance of place in understanding social stratification.
- Policy implications for addressing regional inequalities in opportunity.
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