A Mixed‐Methods Examination of Counselors' Social Class and Socioeconomic Status Perceptions

Abstract

We investigated how counselors (N = 157) perceived social class and socioeconomic status (SES) via a mixed‐methods design. Among other findings, the results revealed participants provided limited or SES‐only responses when they defined social class. We describe counseling practice and training implications from a culturally informed, humanistic perspective.

Diverse middle school students’ future career autobiographies and socioeconomic status factors: A content analysis

“…Not only do employment and occupation significantly contribute to one's identity and sense of purpose, occupation is also one of the three factors that comprise socioeconomic status (SES). SES consists of three discreet, linked components: occupation, education, and income (Cook et al., 2021). In tandem, SES factors largely determine individuals’ and families’ access to resources and quality of life, social capital, and experiences related to privilege and oppression (Cook et al., 2021; Luo & Waite, 2005; Tan et al., 2020).…”

“…SES consists of three discreet, linked components: occupation, education, and income (Cook et al., 2021). In tandem, SES factors largely determine individuals’ and families’ access to resources and quality of life, social capital, and experiences related to privilege and oppression (Cook et al., 2021; Luo & Waite, 2005; Tan et al., 2020). Often, low SES correlates with holding a nondominant racial and/or ethnic identity (US Census Bureau, 2014).…”