Can't Be Ignored! These Are 5 Negative Impacts Of Social Mobility And How To Respond

Illustration of social mobility (Pinterest/Behance)

YOGYAKARTA - Social mobility is an unavoidable phenomenon in the life of modern society. This term refers to the transfer of a person's position or social status as well as groups in social structure, both in a higher or lower direction.

On the one hand, social mobility is often considered a form of progress because it opens up new opportunities for individuals. However, on the other hand, this phenomenon also has a negative impact that is rarely discussed.

The increase in social status, for example, is often seen as an achievement to be proud of. However, the process of changing positions often causes new problems, both for individuals and their environment.

Unbalanced social mobility can cause gaps, social jealousy, to weaken the value of togetherness in society. Therefore, it is important to understand the negative impacts of social mobility so that we can respond more wisely.

By knowing the negative impacts of social mobility, we not only focus on the benefits seen from outside, but also be aware of the risks that accompany it. Here are some negative impacts of social mobility that need to be watched out for.

One of the negative impacts of social mobility is the creation of a greater social gap. When some people succeed in advancing to social class through education, career, or business, there are other groups that remain behind due to limited access. This difference ultimately creates a ravine that is increasingly difficult to bridge.

Sharp social gaps not only create a sense of injustice, but also have the potential to trigger other social problems such as discrimination and horizontal conflicts. Disjoint communities based on economic status will find it difficult to build solidarity, because each group feels they have a different interest.

Social mobility also often creates social jealousy in society. When a person manages to reach a higher position, this can trigger irritation from those around him who feel they do not get a similar chance. This situation is exacerbated if these successes are considered unfair, for example because of connection factors or family heritage.

Social jealousy that is not managed properly can turn into an open conflict. Relationships between individuals and groups can be strained, and even lead to long feuds. Instead of improving the quality of living together, social mobility actually creates social tensions that hinder harmony.

Another impact of social mobility is the weakening value of togetherness in society. When individuals move to higher social classes, there is often a change in mindset and lifestyle that makes them feel different from the original group. This can create emotional distance that breaks the bond of solidarity.

The mutual cooperation value that has been the hallmark of Indonesian society can be eroded if social mobility takes place without being balanced by collective awareness. People who succeed in advancing to social class tend to be more individualistic, while those who are left behind feel neglected. As a result, social cohesion is getting more fragile.

Not everyone is able to adjust quickly after experiencing social mobility. A drastic change in status, both up and down, often causes psychological pressure. For example, someone who suddenly goes up social status may feel pressured to maintain his achievements so as not to return to his original position.

On the other hand, those who experience a decline in social status often face shame, inferiority, and loss of self-esteem. This condition can lead to stress, depression, and even internal conflicts in the family. In other words, social mobility does not always bring happiness, but can become a heavy mental burden.

If social mobility occurs massively without equity, people are at risk of experiencing social disintegration. Changes in class structures that are too fast can create instability because many groups feel their position is threatened. As a result, there is a division between levels of society.

Protracted social disintegration will undermine the national foundation. The sense of togetherness and collective identity are weakened, replaced by the interests of a narrow group. If left unchecked, this condition could hinder national development and create prolonged conflict.

Responding to the negative impact above, the best solution is to strengthen collective awareness and ensure more equitable opportunities for all levels of society. That way, social mobility can be a means of progress without having to sacrifice the value of togetherness and social stability.