Social Networks and Second-Generation Class Migrants

     In her chapter "The Class Culture Gap," Joan C. Williams addresses the oft-ignored, but ever-important, differing expectations and values between the Missing Middle class (median incomes of $35,000 to $55,000) and the Professional-Managerial class (median income of $125,000 - the top 15% of U.S. households).  One of the major differences that Williams describes is the Professional-Managerial’s focus on their children’s self-actualization versus the Missing Middle’s focus on their children’s self-regulation.

    A consequence and cause of these expectations is a difference in social and employment networks.  Williams claims that the Missing Middle is comprised of smaller and denser social networks.  These relationships, though fewer in number, are stronger in connection and support - often different members of families reside within miles of each other and talk daily.  The members of these communities, whether familial or not, depend on each other more heavily than do members of Professional-Managerial communities.  Professional-Managerial networks tend to be broader and weaker.  They know more people and have more far-reaching connections, but those connections are less maintained and provide fewer direct supports.

    Today's reading about class cultures was particularly striking after having come home from Spring Break.  My mom is what Williams would call a class migrant - someone who was raised in the Missing Middle class, but moved economically to the Professional-Managerial class when she became a successful dentist with her own private practice.  As such, she was raised within the small, dense social network that stresses self-regulation.  I, however, was raised in the Professional-Managerial class and, especially due to my time at St. Olaf College, have learned to navigate the network that relies upon the “strength of weak ties” and tells me to find self-fulfillment.  Due to past networking in order to gain a variety of experiences, I qualified for a job next year that will take me to Latin America - far away from my Nebraskan family.

    As a “second-generation” Professional-Managerial class member, I am still expected by my Missing Middle family to stay close to home, find a stable job, and be successful that way.  By my own Professional-Managerial expectations and peers I am expected to go out into the world, discover my vocation and identity, and achieve self-actualization.  I am moving to Latin America next year, that is decided, but I do feel conflicted about leaving my family.  I cherish our tight bonds, even though I might not be as physically present in their maintenance.  I wonder, do second or third generation class migrants ever fully leave their class background behind?  Should we?  Or is it better to combine the strengths of the two?