Status inconsistency is defined as:
A) the condition of persons who are ranked higher in one variable of status than another
B) the order of importance given to status variables
C) the mechanism high status persons use to protect themselves from competition
D) the least important dimension of stratification

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Status inconsistency refers to the situation where an individual's position in one dimension of stratification (e.g. income or education) is not consistent with their position in another dimension (e.g. occupation or social class). This creates a mismatch or tension between different aspects of their social identity or status, which can affect their behavior, attitudes, and opportunities in various ways. For example, a highly educated but low-paid worker may feel frustrated or undervalued, while a wealthy athlete or celebrity may face challenges in being taken seriously or finding meaningful relationships outside of their fame. Thus, status inconsistency is an important concept in sociology and social psychology for understanding social inequality, mobility, and identity formation.

Status Inconsistency Is Defined As