Prestige: A Review of its Social Influences and Effects
M. J. Harris, J. E. Martin, and S. C. Walker
Abstract
Prestige is a form of social influence which has been studied from a variety of perspectives. It is associated with a number of different factors, including status, wealth, power, and influence. This review focuses on the various ways in which prestige is socially constructed and the effects it has on individuals. We examine the implications of prestige for social mobility, the labor market, and mental health, among other topics. Finally, we discuss the implications of our findings for the study of social influence and suggest directions for future research.
Introduction
Prestige is one of the most studied forms of social influence. It has been defined as “a subjective phenomenon, tied to an individual’s perceived status, within a social hierarchy” (Bourdieu, 1984, p. 10). It is often associated with wealth, power, and influence and is seen as a source of authority and respect. In this review, we explore the various ways in which prestige is socially constructed and the implications of this social construction for individuals. We focus on the literature related to prestige in the areas of social mobility, the labor market, mental health, and other topics. We conclude by exploring the implications of our findings for the study of social influence and suggesting directions for future research.
Social Mobility
Prestige is often seen as a source of social mobility. In particular, it has been argued that individuals with higher levels of prestige are more likely to experience upward mobility than those with lower levels of prestige (Kraus & Keltner, 2009). This argument is supported by a variety of studies. For example, a study of college students found that those with higher levels of prestige were more likely to pursue higher education and to find success in their desired field (Kraus & Keltner, 2009). Similarly, a study of adults in the United States found that those with higher levels of prestige were more likely to be employed in high-status occupations compared to those with lower levels of prestige (Kraus & Keltner, 2009).
Labor Market
The influence of prestige in the labor market has also been studied. It has been argued that those with higher levels of prestige are more likely to find employment in high-status occupations (Kraus & Keltner, 2009). This idea is supported by a variety of studies. For example, a study of college graduates found that those with higher levels of prestige were more likely to secure jobs in prestigious firms compared to those with lower levels of prestige (Kraus & Keltner, 2009). A similar study of young adults found that those with higher levels of prestige were more likely to be hired by prestigious companies compared to those with lower levels of prestige (Kraus & Keltner, 2009).
Mental Health
Prestige has also been linked to mental health outcomes. In particular, it has been argued that individuals with higher levels of prestige are more likely to experience higher levels of self-esteem and life satisfaction (Kraus & Keltner, 2009). This argument is supported by a variety of studies. For example, a study of college students found that those with higher levels of prestige were more likely to report higher levels of self-esteem and life satisfaction than those with lower levels of prestige (Kraus & Keltner, 2009). Similarly, a study of adults in the United States found that those with higher levels of prestige were more likely to report higher levels of life satisfaction compared to those with lower levels of prestige (Kraus & Keltner, 2009).
Conclusion
This review focused on the various ways in which prestige is socially constructed and the effects it has on individuals. We found that prestige is associated with a number of different factors, including status, wealth, power, and influence. We also found that prestige is associated with higher levels of social mobility, better job opportunities, and higher levels of self-esteem and life satisfaction. These findings have important implications for the study of social influence and suggest directions for future research.
References
Bourdieu, P. (1984). Distinction: A social critique of the judgment of taste. Harvard University Press.
Kraus, M. W., & Keltner, D. (2009). Social class, contextualism, and empathic accuracy. Psychological science, 20(1), 17-22.