Occupational Differentiation, Prestige, and Socioeconomic Status

Abstract

We factor analyze numerous occupational skill and task characteristics to derive dimensions of occupational differentiation that are both cognitive (complexity, clerical aptitude, people-things, and uncertainty) and noncognitive (physical activity, physical dexterity, and unpleasantness of working conditions). These dimensions are discussed in relation to theories concerning occupational labor markets and relevant empirical literature. Regression analyses of the Duncan SEI and Siegel Prestige Scale on these dimensions suggest that complexity is the most important task determinant of both dependent variables. These data are used to inform debates concerning the “true nature” and construction of the traditionally used measures.