Definition

Socioeconomic status (SES) is an indicator of an individual's social and economic standing in society and often is determined by a combination of ratings on occupational status, income level, and education. Individuals [Page 928]with low SES ratings tend to have low-status occupations, such as service industry jobs; income at or below the poverty level; and low levels of formal education. These individuals have limited access to the kinds of financial, educational, and social resources that could promote their own health and well-being and that of their families. Individuals with high SES ratings are likely to work in prestigious positions, such as in medicine or law; have higher salaries; and have more advanced education. These individuals have greater access to resources that can contribute to their ...