In this text author William Ming Liu presents theory and research on the impact of classism and social class on mental health. He provides an original framework—the Social Class Worldview Model—for exploring each person’s individual and subjective life experiences. These experiences form a perspective that is unique to the individual. The author then helps the reader integrate this realization into the study of poverty, economic inequality, wealth, and the often overlooked implications of greed, materialism, and consumerism for a more complete understanding of social class and classism. Liu’s original Social Class Worldview Model–Revised provides a theoretical framework for integrating each individual’s reaction to social class and classism experiences and addressing that worldview within counseling and psychology work. Readers receive guidance in additional ways to act as advocates for their clients—regardless of affluence—through a study of privilege, social justice, empowerment, and competence.

Classism, Inequalities, and Poverty

Classism, inequalities, and poverty

If you have an opportunity to read through the New York Times wedding and engagement section, I would encourage you to compare this section with your local newspaper's wedding and engagement announcements. I believe you will see the disparities in these two sections and begin to see the process of intergenerational transmission of wealth and social class status. The couples in the New York Times typically come from prestigious private and public institutions, many with graduate-level educations, and have parents who are usually in the upper echelons of major companies and firms. The couples in my hometown newspaper in Iowa reflect the norms and expectations of their communities—mostly middle-class, white-collar work and college educations.

In discussing social class, other ...

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