Socioeconomic status and development

Question 1

What is the Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD)

Answer 1

A government data tool providing a comprehensive index of neighborhood SES from postcode

Question 2

On what 3 levels did Alder et al identify SES to affect outcomes?

Answer 2

1. Social capital
2. Access to opportunities
3. Human capital

Question 3

Explain the findings of Farah et al’s study

Answer 3

Low SES children did poorer in 3 main areas of cognition:

1. Language
2. Memory
3. Executive functions

Question 4

Explain the findings of Lareau’s study

Answer 4

Identified 2 broad parenting styles that differed by SES

1. High SES parents engaged in concerted cultivation
2. Low SES parents engaged in natural growth

Differences in family activities and communication styles

Question 5

Name the 2 accounts used to explain SES differences in parenting styles

Answer 5

1. The investment model

2. The stress model

Question 6

Explain the investment model

Answer 6

Low SES parents have less capital (resources, assets) so are unable to invest as much in their children

Question 7

Explain the findings of Starkey’s study

Answer 7

Mid-SES parents were more likely to have a range of maths activities in the home that were broader and played with more frequently than lower SES parents

Question 8

Name 3 ways in which the investment model explains why low SES children may be developmentally disadvantaged

Answer 8

1. Cognitive stimulation
2. Resources
3. Tools for maths thinking

Question 9

Explain the findings of Blevins-Knabe & Musun-Miller’s study

Answer 9

The frequency with which children engaged in number-related activities at home the previous week was positively correlated with their maths skills

Question 10

Explain the stress model

Answer 10

Low SES groups encounter greater levels of stress which negatively influences their development

Question 11

Describe some of the direct effects of the stress model

Answer 11

• Chronic stress in early development has negative effect on brain development, poorer cognition.
• Stress influences the reactivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis system, higher basal cortisol levels
• Reactive rather than reflective behaviour regulation
• Poorer executive functions
• Poorer formation of new memories

Question 12

Describe some of the indirect effects of the stress model

Answer 12

More harsh and inconsistent parenting as stress makes it harder to regulate your emotions