Question

Identify ways in which you as a leader could address social class differences in an organization or community.

Answer 1

Class is described as relative status according to income, wealth, power and/or position.Although distinctions between working class, low-income, middle class,and upper or owning class can be made, they are also deeply interconnected to race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, location, immigrant status, and other factors. This makes it challenging to separate as a factor on its own, thus often causing it to be overlooked as an issue within a groups dynamic. Class based segregation may also generate feelings of guilt for those who come from more privileged positions or shame for those who come from less privileged positions. These factors make classism an 'ism' that is not talked about or managed effectively. Even within the diversity training context, the subject of class can often be neglected but yet is so important in understanding the environment that can promote or prevent conflicts or misunderstandings amongst individuals.
Here are some ways class can have an impact: affecting one’s relationships and communication with others, i.e. how we treat those around us.Determining one’s own self-concept, confidence, and perception of ability to take on certain responsibilities, roles, or career goals.Creating a sense of belonging or exclusion, due to ones comfort with others or familiarity with professional or social environments.Creating a sense of exclusion from one’s family or class of origin if one has changed social class through education, employment or life partnerships.Influencing one’s perception of money, power, status, organizational structure and policies, and management hierarchy.These impacts can be directly seen in a situation, or can indirectly contribute to conflicts or misunderstandings and decreased performance, if not identified, understood, and consciously dealt with.