Affluent Worker - GCSE Sociology Definition

An 'Affluent Worker' refers to a member of the working class who enjoys a higher standard of living and greater financial prosperity than is traditionally associated with their social class. Despite holding a manual or semi-skilled occupation, affluent workers often experience improved wages, living conditions, and access to consumer goods, which may lead to changes in social perspectives and lifestyles.

This concept is significant in sociology because it challenges traditional class boundaries and explores how economic changes impact social identity and class structure, a topic relevant to students studying social stratification and class dynamics in GCSE Sociology.