Subjective Class Identification in Australia: Do Social Networks Matter?

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study investigates the factors that are associated with subjective class identification by using Australian national survey data. Results show that social networks play a significant role in respondents’ subjective evaluation of where they fit in the social hierarchy, with those individuals who have a reference group for social comparison being more likely to identify as middle class. Participating in social clubs, having a sense of neighborhood belonging and being able to access social resources from network members are positively associated with perceived social class. The hypothetical negative effect of social exclusion on subjective class identification is not statistically significant.