Which type of mobility describes a person's upward or downward movement in social status?

Vertical mobility refers to an individual's movement up or down the social hierarchy, which can be seen in changes related to income, education level, or occupational status. When a person experiences vertical mobility, it could mean that they have secured a higher-paying job or have achieved a professional position that elevates them within society, showcasing an upward shift. Conversely, it may also represent a downward movement, such as losing a job and entering a lower-paying or less prestigious occupation.

This concept plays a crucial role in understanding social structures, as it illustrates how different factors, including economic conditions, education systems, and social policies, can affect an individual's social status. Vertical mobility contrasts with other types of mobility, which do not involve a change in social rank, further emphasizing its significance in the context of social stratification and social mobility theories.