Which mobility description describes movement up or down that results from broad social changes?

• A. Intergenerational mobility
• B. Horizontal mobility
• C. Personal mobility
• D. Structural mobility

Answer: (D)

Structural mobility is about movement in the social hierarchy caused by broad changes in society, such as shifts in the economy, technology, or education systems. When large-scale changes happen, many people experience rises or declines in status not because of their own actions, but because the overall structure of opportunities has shifted. For example, a nationwide move from manufacturing to knowledge-based jobs can open up higher-status occupations for many, while reducing opportunities in other fields, leading to widespread upward or downward moves across the population. This type of mobility contrasts with moving within the same social level (horizontal mobility), moving due to an individual’s own efforts (personal mobility), or comparing one’s status to their parents (intergenerational mobility).